More than 1,000 patients with cold-related ailments sought treatment at six major public hospitals
The province of Punjab is facing a growing public health challenge as an intense cold wave continues to sweep across the region and trigger a sharp increase in respiratory and viral diseases.
Lahore and other major cities are witnessing an unprecedented rush in public hospitals, with doctors reporting a continuous rise in patients suffering from super flu, influenza, viral infections, chest complications, pneumonia and high fever.
A study of patient flow in major public hospitals in Lahore reveals a worrying situation. Over the past 24 hours, more than 1,000 patients with cold-related ailments have sought treatment at six major public hospitals. Mayo Hospital alone received more than 300 patients, while Jinnah Hospital treated over 250. Services Hospital and Lahore General Hospital each recorded more than 200 cases, while Children’s Hospital admitted over 100 young patients showing flu and respiratory symptoms.
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Hospital corridors, emergency departments and outpatient clinics 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 is far beyond our routine winter workload. Most of the patients are senior citizens and young children,” said Dr. Fareed, senior physician at Mayo Hospital Lahore. “Most are suffering from super flu, flu, pneumonia, chest infections and other cold-related illnesses. A large number also have high fever, severe cough, difficulty breathing and body aches. Many cases are more aggressive than the usual seasonal flu,” he added.
Health experts link the increase directly to the ongoing cold wave, which has dropped temperatures significantly, especially at night and in the 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 cases of super flu spread quickly, with symptoms such as stuffy nose, sore throat, persistent cough, high fever, muscle aches and shortness of breath.
A worrying trend is the increasing number of cases of pneumonia among children and senior citizens. Pediatric wards are under particular strain as young children with reduced immunity are brought in with breathing problems. Elderly patients, especially those with heart disease, diabetes, asthma or other chronic conditions, 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, which increases transmission. Those who ignore early symptoms often end up in hospitals with serious complications such as pneumonia,” says Dr. Abdul Basit, former Medical Superintendent of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
Hospital administrators admit that despite the preparations, the scale of the outbreak has stretched resources. Bed shortages, limited staff and overcrowded emergency rooms have become routine, with some patients being treated in hallways or waiting areas due to lack of space.
“Our doctors and nurses are working longer shifts, but the influx of patients is relentless,” said a hospital official at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
Medical experts urge the public to take preventive measures seriously. The use of face masks in crowded areas has been strongly recommended, along with frequent hand washing and avoidance of close contact with infected people. Doctors have also emphasized the importance of seasonal flu vaccination, especially for children, senior citizens, pregnant women and those with chronic illnesses.
“Vaccination not only reduces the risk of infection, it also lowers the severity of the disease,” said Prof. Dr. Saba hat.
Meteorological trends indicate that the cold wave is likely to continue in the coming days, with cool nights, cold mornings and dry conditions expected to continue. Health experts warn that if temperatures remain low, respiratory illnesses could rise further, adding pressure to hospitals already in operation.
Doctors are advising citizens to stay warm, eat nutritious food, stay hydrated and seek medical attention at the first sign of illness, warning that self-medication and ignoring symptoms can lead to serious health consequences.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has extended the school holidays in view of the prevailing weather conditions.
“This is dangerous weather, especially for young children and elderly people. The public should avoid unnecessary outings and use face masks as the super flu is at its peak,” said Dr. Masood Sheikh, President General Cadres Doctors Association.
A Punjab Health Department spokesman said hospitals across the province had been alerted in response to the rise in super flu cases and cold weather. “At present, the best possible arrangements have been made in the hospitals and special counters have already been set up to deal with cold-related illnesses,” the spokesperson added.
