NIH reassures public: No surge in COVID-19 cases in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The National Institute of Health (NIH) has dismissed reports of a significant rise in COVID-19 cases across Pakistan, assuring the public that the situation remains under control.

In an exclusive interview with ARY News, Dr. Mumtaz Khan, Head of the Center for Disease Control at NIH, clarified that there is no truth to the claims of a rapid increase in COVID-19 infections.

Dr Khan explained that the symptoms of COVID-19 closely resemble those of influenza and seasonal flu, which might be leading to some confusion.

Dr Khan further reassured citizens that there is no need for panic, emphasizing that the situation is being actively monitored by health authorities. He highlighted that an increase in respiratory illnesses is a common occurrence during the winter season and that seasonal flu and H1N1 cases are typically reported at this time of year.

To better manage the situation, the NIH has ramped up its surveillance efforts nationwide, ensuring that any emerging trends are quickly identified and addressed. Dr. Khan also mentioned that a written report addressing the status of COVID-19, influenza, and H1N1 cases has been submitted to the National Assembly.

Despite the NIH’s reassurances, recent reports from Karachi have indicated a rise in COVID-19 cases, with 25 to 30 per cent of patients displaying symptoms like cold and cough testing positive for the virus. According to Professor Saeed Khan, an infectious disease expert at Dow Hospital, the number of patients suffering from cold, cough, and fever has increased, and after testing, a significant proportion of them are infected with COVID-19.