More than 1,000 patients with cold-related ailments sought treatment at six large public sector hospitals
Punjab province is facing a growing public health challenge as an intense cold wave continues to hit the region, causing a sharp rise in respiratory and viral diseases.
Lahore and other major cities are witnessing an unprecedented rush in public hospitals, where doctors report a continuous rise in patients suffering from super flu, influenza, viral infections, chest complications, pneumonia and high fever.
A survey of patient flow in major government hospitals in Lahore reveals a worrying situation. In the last 24 hours, more than 1,000 patients with cold-related ailments sought treatment at six large public sector hospitals. Mayo Hospital alone received more than 300 patients, while Jinnah Hospital treated more than 250. Lahore Services Hospital and General Hospital each recorded more than 200 cases, while Children’s Hospital admitted more than 100 young patients presenting with respiratory and flu symptoms.
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Hospital hallways, emergency units and outpatient departments remain crowded throughout the day. Patients, many wrapped in blankets, can be seen waiting for hours as medical staff work under intense pressure.
“The number of patients far exceeds our usual winter load. Most of the patients are elderly people and young children,” said Dr Fareed, medical director of Mayo Hospital Lahore. “The majority suffer from super flu, flu, pneumonia, respiratory infections and other cold-related illnesses. A large number also have high fever, severe cough, breathing difficulties and body aches. Many cases are more aggressive than the usual seasonal flu,” he added.
Health experts link the increase directly to the current cold snap, which has significantly reduced temperatures, especially during the night and early morning hours. Prolonged exposure to cold, combined with poor air quality and smog, has weakened immune responses, making people more vulnerable to infections.
Doctors note that super flu cases are spreading rapidly, with symptoms including nasal congestion, sore throat, persistent cough, high fever, muscle pain and difficulty breathing.
A worrying trend is the increasing number of pneumonia cases among children and the elderly. Pediatric wards are under particular pressure as young children with compromised immunity arrive with respiratory problems. Elderly patients, especially those with heart disease, diabetes, asthma or other chronic illnesses, also face serious complications. Pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems have been categorized as high risk.
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“Cold weather allows viruses to survive longer and spread faster. People stay indoors with limited ventilation, increasing transmission. Those who ignore early symptoms often end up in hospitals with serious complications like pneumonia,” said Dr Abdul Basit, former medical superintendent of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
Hospital administrations admit that, despite preparations, the magnitude of the outbreak has strained resources. Bed shortages, limited staff and overcrowded emergency rooms have become routine, and some patients are treated in hallways or waiting areas due to lack of space.
“Our doctors and nurses work long shifts, but the influx of patients is relentless,” said an official at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
Medical experts urge the public to take preventive measures seriously. The use of masks in crowded areas has been strongly recommended, along with frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with infected people. Doctors have also stressed the importance of vaccination against seasonal flu, especially in children, older people, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases.
“Vaccination not only reduces the risk of infection, but also reduces the severity of the disease,” said Prof. Dr. Sabahat.
Weather trends indicate that the cold snap is likely to persist over the next few days, with cold nights and mornings and dry conditions expected to continue. Health experts warn that if temperatures remain low, respiratory illnesses could increase further, adding pressure to hospitals already operating at capacity.
Doctors advise citizens to stay warm, eat nutritious foods, stay hydrated and seek medical attention at the first sign of illness, warning that self-medication and ignoring symptoms could have serious health consequences.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has extended school holidays in view of the prevailing weather conditions.
“This is a dangerous climate, especially for young children and elderly people. The public should avoid unnecessary outings and wear face masks as the super flu is at its peak,” said Dr Masood Sheikh, president of the General Cadre Doctors Association.
A Punjab Health Department spokesperson said hospitals across the province had been alerted in response to rising super flu cases and cold weather. “Currently, the best possible measures have been adopted in hospitals and special counters have already been installed to treat cold-related illnesses,” the spokesperson added.
