ISLAMABAD: Health experts on Thursday advised parents to enhance their children’s immune systems and take timely preventive measures to mitigate the impact of influenza-related viruses during the current winter season.
A surge in pediatric patients with respiratory illnesses is overwhelming hospitals nationwide.
Dr. Nazia Mumtaz, a senior consultant pediatrician, emphasized that influenza is highly contagious among children, spreading through inhaling droplets from infected individuals during coughing, sneezing, or talking.
“Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to limiting adverse outcomes with influenza and mini-COVID virus among children,” she added. In most cases, these infections manifest as mild symptoms such as fever, a blocked nose, and a cough.
However, Dr. Mumtaz cautioned that a small number of high-risk infants can develop severe symptoms and may need hospitalization. Since no effective treatments exist for these viruses, supporting infants as their immune system fights off the infection becomes imperative.
Addressing concerns, Dr. Mukhtasim Khan, another pediatric specialist, explained that if a child exhibits symptom like sniffling, coughing, fever, or a sore throat, they may have contracted a respiratory virus. While these viruses typically cause a brief illness and discomfort in healthy kids, very young children or those with compromised immune systems may face more significant risks.
Dr. Khan highlighted the importance of timely influenza vaccination as the best preventive measure for everyone. Additionally, he recommended frequent handwashing, wearing face masks, and avoiding crowds to help curb the spread of illnesses. —APP
