Influenza H1N1 Cases in Karachi, Vaccination Recommended

KARACHI: Seasonal influenza is rapidly spreading throughout the city, leading to a significant rise in patients reporting cold, cough, and fever. Both public and private healthcare facilities are witnessing overcrowded outpatient departments, as the older people, children, pregnant people, and individuals with chronic respiratory issues face the greatest risk.
Doctors have confirmed that this year’s influenza strain is H1N1, which appears to be behaving differently from previous years. Alongside typical respiratory symptoms, many patients are also presenting digestive problems such as diarrhea, raising fresh concerns among healthcare professionals.
Dr. Faisal Javed, a physician at JPMC, revealed that Karachi has observed almost a fivefold increase in influenza cases. “This rise is typical during seasonal changes, especially when temperatures drop or humidity increases,” he said. Highlighting the unusual development, he added, “What’s different this year is the involvement of the digestive system, with many patients also experiencing diarrhea.”
H1N1, primarily a cause of upper respiratory infections, can progress to pneumonia and dangerously high fever in vulnerable groups. Doctors warn that people with pre-existing conditions are at greater risk of complications if treatment is delayed.
Experts are strongly recommending annual influenza vaccination, emphasizing that the virus mutates each year, making older vaccines ineffective. Dr. Faisal noted that children under six, adults over 50, pregnant people, and patients with chronic lung diseases should be especially cautious. “The influenza virus changes its structure annually. Therefore, last year’s vaccine offers no protection against this year’s strain,” he warned, urging citizens to vaccinate themselves and their families.
Healthcare specialists continue to stress early treatment and prevention measures to limit the spread of influenza in Karachi.