Karachi has witnessed a rise in COVID-19 cases, with 25 to 30 percent of patients exhibiting symptoms like cold and cough testing positive for the virus.

Professor Saeed Khan, an infectious disease expert at Dow Hospital, noted an increase in patients experiencing cold, cough, and fever. After testing, 25 to 30 percent of these individuals were confirmed to have COVID-19. Additionally, 10 to 12 percent were diagnosed with Influenza H1N1, and 5 to 10 percent of children were showing signs of respiratory infections.

Professor Khan explained that the symptoms of COVID-19, Influenza H1N1, and other winter viruses are similar, leading many patients to avoid testing, which delays the confirmation of these diseases. At Dow Hospital, there has been a noticeable rise in patients with respiratory issues, including difficulty breathing, in addition to cold and cough symptoms.

The symptoms of these viral infections often overlap, with the loss of taste and smell being a key indicator for COVID-19. The winter season, with its cold weather and poor ventilation, typically accelerates the spread of these viruses.

Experts are urging the public to take precautions such as wearing masks and staying covered. They also recommend getting the annual influenza vaccine to help prevent viral infections.