Health department sends suspected H3N2 ‘super flu’ samples to Islamabad as pediatric wards face severe overcrowding
Lady Reading Hospital. PHOTO: EXPRESS
PESHAWAR:
The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Health Department has sent five influenza virus samples from Peshawar and other districts to the National Institute of Health in Islamabad for testing, following concerns over the spread of the H3N2 “super flu” reported in several countries.
The province is currently seeing an increase in seasonal influenza cases, leading to a significant increase in patient influx, particularly at major hospitals.
Children make up the majority of these patients and suffer from respiratory and chest infections, flu and pneumonia. As a result, pediatric wards and chest wards are operating beyond capacity, with up to four children reportedly sharing a single bed, highlighting the critical situation of hospital facilities.
Sources indicate that numerous cases of seasonal flu are being reported in Peshawar and surrounding districts. Fears of the H3N2 strain have led families to rush affected patients to hospitals immediately, further straining resources. Although influenza samples sent to the NIH two months ago have yet to return results, the health department remains unaware of any confirmed “super flu” cases.
According to officials, the Health Department has issued comprehensive advisories to all hospitals, instructing medical staff to wear masks and gloves and follow preventive measures. Hospitals have been ordered to isolate symptomatic patients and report any suspected cases immediately.
Previously, NIH testing had identified H3N2 in 20 percent of submitted samples, raising alarm about possible outbreaks.
Experts warn that the recent cold wave may aggravate the situation, further increasing the number of cases.
More than 60,000 cases of seasonal flu have already been recorded in Peshawar’s three main hospitals alone, and several districts are reportedly facing even worse conditions. Contributing factors include extreme cold, gasoline shortages and limited medical facilities.
Common symptoms among patients include severe cough, cold, headaches, body aches, and in some cases, fever.
Health specialists predict that cases of seasonal influenza will continue to be reported until February. They advise the public, especially children and the elderly, to wear warm clothing, consume hot beverages and take precautions against exposure to the cold.
Additionally, people are urged to avoid spitting in public, wear masks and wash their hands regularly to limit the spread of the virus.
