K-P sends flu samples amid H3N2 fears

Seasonal influenza surge overwhelms hospitals

PESHAWAR:

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Health Department has sent five samples of influenza virus from Peshawar and other districts to the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad for testing, following concerns over the spread of the H3N2 "super flu" reported in several countries.

Currently, the province is witnessing a surge in seasonal influenza cases, leading to a significant increase in patient inflow, particularly in major hospitals. Children constitute the majority of these patients, suffering from respiratory and chest infections, flu, and pneumonia. As a result, pediatric wards and chest wards are operating beyond capacity, with reports of up to four children sharing a single bed, highlighting the critical condition of hospital facilities.

Sources indicate that numerous seasonal influenza cases are being reported from Peshawar and surrounding districts. Fears of the H3N2 strain have prompted families to rush affected patients to hospitals immediately, further straining resources. Although the influenza samples sent to NIH two months ago are yet to yield results, the health department remains unaware of confirmed "super flu" cases.

According to officials, the Health Department has issued comprehensive advisories to all hospitals, instructing medical staff to use masks and gloves and follow preventive measures. Hospitals have been directed to isolate symptomatic patients and report any suspected cases immediately. Previously, NIH testing had identified H3N2 in 20 per cent of submitted samples, raising alarm about potential outbreaks.

Experts warn that the recent cold wave may exacerbate the situation, increasing the number of cases further. In Peshawar's three major hospitals alone, over 60,000 seasonal influenza cases have already been registered, 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, headaches, body aches, and, in some cases, fever.