A wave of viral infections is sweeping across Lahore, with hundreds of patients reporting symptoms including high fever, persistent cough, and body aches over the past three weeks.
Medical experts have expressed concern that the illness may be linked to a resurgence of the coronavirus, though official testing remains limited.
Both government and private hospitals and clinics in the city have seen a noticeable surge in patients complaining of flu-like symptoms. While doctors suspect the coronavirus could be a contributing factor, formal testing for the virus has significantly decreased.
“Coronavirus is spreading, patients are coming to hospitals, but COVID-19 tests are not being conducted anymore,” said Professor Dr. Irfan Malik, Head of Pulmonology at a Lahore medical university.
According to private laboratories, very few individuals are requesting COVID-19 tests, and the Punjab Health Department has also stopped routine testing, despite the potential public health threat.
Medical professionals point out that several strains of the virus are now circulating simultaneously, due to which they are no longer recommending tests. However, they emphasize that the symptoms are consistent with previous COVID-19 infections and should be taken seriously.
Health experts have urged the public to remain cautious. People exhibiting symptoms have been advised to self-isolate and use masks, particularly in crowded areas, to prevent further transmission. Quarantine has been advised if symptoms appear.
“We're not in the clear yet,” a senior physician at a government hospital warned. “Precaution is still the best protection.”
