Unpredictable weather: More people with seasonal flu visiting hospitals

Doctors advise patients to take high-protein diet.

ISLAMABAD:

A 20 per cent rise in the number of patients suffering from seasonal allergies and flu is being witnessed in public hospitals of the capital compared to last year.

Health experts are of the view that the sudden change in the weather pattern is responsible for the surge. According to data gathered by The Express Tribune, the Pakistan Institution of Medical Science (Pims) is receiving an average of 80 to 90 patients per day in the ENT outpatient department (OPD) during the morning shift, Polyclinic Hospital is receiving over 200 patients every 24 hours, and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Hospital is treating over 60 patients in every morning shift.

According to sources at Pims, the Ministry of National Health Services, Regularisation and Coordination recently issued a letter to Pims asking to keep a strict check on cases of seasonal flu, especially on people coming from Middle Eastern countries.

“It is because of the fear of corona virus, as the symptoms are similar to the common seasonal flu,” said the sources.

Dr Asadullah Nemati, a senior chest physician at Pims, said a slight drop in mercury levels has caused seasonal flu and allergies among the residents of the capital.

“If I receive 200 patient every day during my OPD timings, 90 cases are seasonal allergies and flu. Last year, the situation was much better during this season.”

This year I receive two to three patients from the same family, Dr Nemati said. “Family members are not taking care to prevent the spread of infection.” While sharing the symptoms, he said the majority of patients experience a runny nose, nasal congestion, irritation in eyes, cough, high fever, aches and sneezing.

He suggested those suffering from seasonal infections should immediately visit a doctor, start wearing a mask, avoid going near plants or sitting directly under a fan or air conditioner.

“A high protein diet consisting of chicken broth and boiled eggs is effective for patients,” he said.

Dr Tanveer Malik, official spokesman for Polyclinic Hospital said, “In the past two weeks, the hospital has received a record number of seasonal flu patients.” The change in the weather pattern like warm days and cold nights is affecting people, who are not taking precautionary measures during the rains, he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 12^th, 2013.