At least four people have died of Covid-19 in Karachi amid a noticeable rise in cases over the past two weeks, according to media reports.
Media reports reveal that most of the patients diagnosing Covid-19 are elderly individuals with weakened immune systems and underlying health conditions.
All the four deaths occurred at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), which has seen a steady increase in Covid-19 admissions. Experts have described this trend as “unusual” for the current season.
Prof. Dr. Syed Faisal Mahmood, an infectious disease specialist at AKUH, confirmed that the hospital has been consistently admitting Covid patients. “We’re seeing daily hospitalizations due to Covid-19,” he said.
Dr. Mahmood described the current surge as “peculiar,” noting that Covid-19, being a respiratory virus, generally spreads more in the colder months. However, cases are now rising despite daytime temperatures in Karachi soaring above 40°C.
“This is a flu-like illness, and we typically see spikes in winter. This year’s increase during the peak of summer is unexpected,” he explained.
Despite the uptick, Dr. Mahmood reassured the public that most cases among otherwise healthy individuals are presenting with mild, flu-like symptoms. He recommended that anyone experiencing signs such as a sore throat, cough, runny nose, or fever should wear a mask, avoid social gatherings, and seek medical advice for appropriate symptomatic treatment.
Additionally, speaking about the surge in cases of Covid-19 in Karachi, Dr Javed Khan, a specialist in respiratory diseases, disclosed that 8 to 10 patients with symptoms of COVID-19 are arriving daily at hospitals.
“Globally, COVID-19 cases are being reported, and many patients have a travel history,” he continued. Dr. Khan gave reassurance that there is no reason for alarm as the health of the patients visiting the hospital is getting better.
