Karachi faces double trouble as hot weather and Influenza cases increase
The Pakistan Meteorological Department said the minimum temperature was recorded at 22.4 degrees Celsius. The current temperature stood at 25 degrees Celsius, with humidity at 47 per cent.
Temperature May Reach 37°C
According to the weather department, winds are blowing from the northeast at a speed of 4 kilometres per hour.
The maximum temperature in Karachi is expected to remain between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius. Residents may continue to face warm and dry conditions during the day.
Influenza Cases Rise Across Karachi
Along with changing weather, dust and increasing air pollution are contributing to health concerns in Karachi. Hospitals have reported a noticeable increase in patients suffering from influenza, commonly known as flu.
Doctors and hospital officials said the flu season started earlier than usual this year. The disease normally reaches its peak in December and January. However, cases have increased rapidly over the past one to two months.
The in-charge of Jinnah Hospital said more than 80 influenza cases are being reported every day. The total number of patients has also doubled.
Civil Hospital officials said more than 50 people visit the hospital daily for treatment of influenza.
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Doctors Warn of Rapid Spread
Professor Dr Faisal Mahmood, an infectious disease specialist at Aga Khan Hospital, said influenza was spreading faster than expected in Karachi.
He said around 200 cases had been officially confirmed over the past few months. However, the actual number could be much higher because many patients do not undergo testing.
Dr Irfan Siddiqui warned that influenza is highly contagious. If one person in a household becomes infected, other family members can also catch the disease.
Precautions Advised for Residents
Medical experts have advised people to take precautions to protect themselves from infection.
They have recommended wearing masks to avoid dust and polluted air, maintaining personal hygiene and keeping a safe distance from people who are sick.
Residents have also been advised to seek medical guidance if they develop flu symptoms, especially if their condition becomes worse.
