K-P hospitals on alert for flu surge

PESHAWAR:

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Health Department has issued a comprehensive advisory to all hospitals across the province in anticipation of a potential seasonal influenza outbreak. The advisory, prepared in line with recommendations from the National Institute of Health (NIH), Islamabad, outlines essential preventive measures, including the establishment of dedicated wards, deployment of specialist medical staff, and availability of necessary medications.

According to the advisory, influenza virus transmission can intensify between November and April, with the possibility of severe cases. "The flu season in Pakistan this year could be particularly intense," the advisory warned, citing recent influenza outbreaks reported in Japan, Thailand, and Singapore. Officials noted that the drop in temperatures during the winter months may contribute to an increase in cases locally.

Hospitals have been directed to implement special arrangements to manage influenza patients effectively. High-risk groups, including individuals over 65 years of age, children under five, pregnant women, and patients with chronic illnesses, are advised to take preventive measures and receive vaccinations. The advisory emphasizes that influenza spreads easily through sneezing, coughing, or contact with contaminated surfaces.