The National Institute of Health (NIH) has dismissed reports claiming a spike in COVID-19 cases across Pakistan, confirming that the situation remains under control.
Speaking to ARY News, Dr. Mumtaz Khan, Head of the Center for Disease Control at NIH, clarified that rumors of a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases are unfounded.
Dr. Khan noted that the overlapping symptoms of COVID-19, influenza, and seasonal flu may be causing confusion among the public. He assured citizens that there is no cause for alarm, emphasizing that respiratory illnesses typically increase during winter and that cases of influenza and H1N1 are expected during this period.
To monitor the situation, NIH has strengthened its nationwide surveillance. Dr. Khan also confirmed that a written update on COVID-19, influenza, and H1N1 cases has been shared with the National Assembly.
Meanwhile, Karachi has seen an uptick in patients presenting with cold and cough symptoms, with 25–30% testing positive for COVID-19, according to infectious disease expert Professor Saeed Khan of Dow Hospital. He added that 10–12% of patients have been diagnosed with H1N1, while respiratory infections are rising among children.