KARACHI: An unusual spike in COVID-19 cases has been reported in Karachi during the summer season, with four deaths recorded in the past two weeks.
According to a report by Dialogue Pakistan, health officials have confirmed that all four fatalities occurred at Aga Khan University Hospital. The deceased were mostly elderly individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.
Dr. Syed Faisal Mahmood, an expert in infectious diseases, termed the current situation as “unusual”, noting that respiratory illnesses and viral outbreaks typically peak during winter months, not in extreme heat. He added that while the spread of COVID-19 in summer is surprising, symptoms remain mild in healthy individuals.
He advised that individuals experiencing sore throat, fever, or cough should wear masks, avoid crowded places, and seek immediate medical attention.
Meanwhile, Dr. Javed Khan revealed that a private hospital is currently seeing 8 to 10 patients daily with COVID-like symptoms, many of whom have recent travel history. He emphasized that although symptoms are generally mild, taking precautions is crucial.
Confirmed COVID-19 cases have also been reported at Dow Hospital and the Sindh Institute of Infectious Diseases. At least three patients have tested positive through PCR and rapid testing.
Experts at Dow University of Health Sciences suspect that a new Omicron subvariant, JN.1, may be responsible for the current wave. Genetic analysis of collected samples is underway.
On a national scale, cases are being reported as well, but the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad noted that low testing rates are likely obscuring the full picture. The NIH plans to scale up surveillance efforts to better assess the outbreak.
Health experts have warned that the virus poses greater risks to the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. They urge such individuals to adopt stringent precautionary measures.
