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Friday, January 31, 2025  
01 Shaban 1446  

What is the respiratory illness spreading in Karachi? Senior doctors weigh in

Dr Wasim Jamalvi reveals over 4,000 children were treated for respiratory illness in past six months

A significant increase in respiratory illnesses, including colds, coughs, and fevers, has been reported across Karachi’s three major public hospitals following a recent change in weather. This surge has raised concerns about a potential resurgence of COVID-19.

However, Sindh’s Provincial Health Minister Dr Azra Pechuho dismissed widespread reports of a COVID-19 outbreak in the city. A statement released by her office indicated that only seven out of over 100 COVID-19 tests conducted recently returned positive results. Dr Pechuho stated that COVID-19 is now treated globally as similar to influenza, emphasizing that there is no need for alarm.

Head of the Pediatrics Department at Civil Hospital Karachi Professor Dr Wasim Jamalvi attributed the increase in respiratory illnesses to the changing weather patterns. He stated that over 35,000 children were treated at Civil Hospital in the past six months, with 4,000–4,500 suffering from respiratory issues.

Dr Irfan, Assistant Professor and Shift In-charge of the Emergency Department at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center, reported a daily influx of around 200 patients with respiratory symptoms. However, he confirmed that none displayed a full set of COVID-19 symptoms. He noted that among patients with colds and coughs, 5-10% exhibit symptoms of deeper breathing difficulties.

Further detailing the illnesses observed in children at Civil Hospital, Dr Jamalvi, citing throat infections, tonsillitis, nasal and chest infections as prevalent. Some cases showed infections spreading to the airways and lungs, potentially linked to Omicron, RSV, or other viruses, resulting in severe coughs and, in some instances, pneumonia. He also highlighted a rise in asthma and allergy cases among children, exacerbated by factors like smoking, burning waste, carpet use, domestic pets, pigeon keeping, and the use of strong fragrances.

Dr Irfan explained that the increase in respiratory illnesses during November, December, and January is typical, influenced by weather changes, increased social gatherings, and cold temperatures. He cautioned that children under five and older individuals with diabetes, heart conditions, or hypertension are at higher risk.

To mitigate the impact of childhood illnesses, Dr Jamalvi recommended breastfeeding for newborns, timely vaccinations, and well-ventilated homes.

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