Climate Variability Impacts Health: Respiratory Cases Surge In ICT Hospitals

News Desk

Islamabad: The fluctuation in mercury has triggered an outbreak of the common cold, flu, cough and viral fever, especially among schoolchildren, said health expert.

Family Physician Dr Umair Tahir stated that the number of patients with seasonal diseases has increased as the weather is heading towards winter, adding that people suffering from asthma and other such serious conditions are more vulnerable to the weather conditions.

Health experts have advised the public to take necessary safety measures during inclement weather as nights turned freezing and the majority of hospitals have been witnessing an unusual rush of patients suffering from respiratory illnesses.

Dr Umair explained that the changing of the seasons always comes with an increase in viral infections, adding that during autumn, when the air is dry, different types of infections are very common.

To a query, he said that changes in weather are basically challenges to our immune system and to our musculature system.

He said that parents should not send sick children to school so that other children can be protected from catching the viral infection.

The public should be aware of changing weather patterns, dress appropriately, and avoid constant contact with people exhibiting flu-like symptoms as much as possible, Physician added.

People with respiratory problems should protect themselves against dust, dirt and a dusty atmosphere by wearing masks when going out, Dr Tahir added.

He advised that children and elderly people should cover themselves in particular before going outside; adding warm beverages can also be beneficial for keeping the chest warm.

Experts also warned people against taking antibiotics for a simple dust allergy and to use hot liquids when suffering from a cold or flu.

Dr Umair also advised the health departments to launch a public awareness campaign and that patients suffering from influenza should be kept in isolation wards. Additional input from APP.