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 samples of the influenza virus 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.
Currently, the province is witnessing an increase in cases of seasonal influenza, leading to a significant increase in patient influx, especially in major hospitals.
Children make up the majority of these patients suffering from respiratory and chest infections, influenza and pneumonia. As a result, pediatric and chest wards are operating above capacity, with reports of up to four children sharing a single bed, highlighting the critical state of hospital facilities.
Sources indicate that numerous seasonal flu cases are being reported from Peshawar and surrounding districts. Fear of the H3N2 strain has prompted families to rush affected patients to hospitals immediately, further straining resources. Although the flu samples sent to the NIH two months ago have not yet returned results, the health department remains unaware of any confirmed cases of “super flu.”
According to officials, the Ministry of Health has issued comprehensive guidelines to all hospitals instructing medical staff to use masks and gloves and follow preventive measures. Hospitals have been asked to isolate symptomatic patients and immediately report any suspected cases.
Earlier, NIH tests had identified H3N2 in 20 percent of submitted samples, raising alarm about potential outbreaks.
Experts warn that the latest cold wave could worsen the situation and further increase the number of cases.
In Peshawar’s three major hospitals alone, over 60,000 seasonal flu cases have already been recorded, with several districts reportedly facing even worse conditions. Contributing factors include extreme cold, gas shortages and limited medical facilities.
Common symptoms among patients include severe cough, cold, headache, body aches and, in some cases, fever.
Health specialists predict that seasonal flu cases will continue to be reported until February. They advise the public, especially children and the elderly, to wear warm clothing, drink hot drinks and take precautions against exposure to the cold.
In addition, people are encouraged to avoid spitting in public, wear masks and practice regular hand washing to limit the spread of the virus.
