ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s National Institute of Health (NIH) has dismissed reports of a rise in COVID-19 cases in the country, stating that the situation is under control.
Dr. Mumtaz Khan, Head of the Centre for Disease Control at NIH, as cited by a local news channel, said that the confusion likely stems from the overlapping symptoms of COVID-19, influenza, and seasonal flu, which are common during the winter months.
He said that there is no truth to claims of a rapid increase in COVID-19 cases.
Dr. Khan said the citizens should not panic, as the situation is being closely monitored. He also added that an increase in respiratory illnesses during the winter season is normal and that cases of influenza and H1N1 are reported during this time.
The NIH has intensified surveillance nationwide to monitor the situation closely. Dr. Khan stated that a written response has been submitted to the National Assembly regarding cases of COVID-19, influenza, and H1N1.
Recent reports indicate a surge in COVID-19 cases in Karachi, with 25 to 30 percent of patients showing symptoms of cold and cough testing positive for the virus.
According to Professor Saeed Khan, an infectious disease expert at Dow Hospital, there has been a noticeable increase in individuals suffering from cold, cough, and fever in the city, with testing confirming COVID-19 in 25 to 30 percent of these cases.
Professor Khan noted that 10 to 12 percent of patients are being diagnosed with Influenza H1N1, while 5 to 10 percent of children are presenting symptoms of respiratory infections.
He explained that the overlapping symptoms of COVID-19, Influenza H1N1, and other winter viral infections often deter patients from seeking testing, which hampers accurate diagnosis and confirmation.
At Dow Hospital, a significant portion of patients with symptoms such as cold, cough, and fever have tested positive for COVID-19. Additionally, the hospital has observed a rising number of patients experiencing breathing difficulties and other respiratory issues.