Lahore Hospitals Report Over 35,000 Patients With Flu and COVID-Like Symptoms in One Week
Six major government hospitals in Lahore recorded more than 35,000 patients with flu, influenza-like and COVID-19 symptoms over seven days as smog and seasonal viral infections intensify across the city.
More than 35,000 patients sought treatment for flu, influenza-like and COVID-19 symptoms at six major government hospitals in Lahore over the past seven days, according to hospital sources, as worsening smog and seasonal viral infections place growing pressure on the city's public health facilities.
Mayo Hospital recorded the highest number of cases, with over 11,000 people arriving for treatment of these symptoms. Services Hospital received more than 9,800 patients, while Jinnah Hospital reported over 1,000. Thousands of additional patients visited Lahore General Hospital, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital and the Children's Hospital with similar complaints.
Sources said rapid tests had confirmed positive COVID-19 cases among those seeking care, adding to concerns about the spread of viral infections during the current smog season. Health experts note that COVID-19, seasonal influenza and smog-related respiratory conditions frequently present with overlapping symptoms, making medical evaluation important for an accurate diagnosis.
The head of the Ear, Nose and Throat Department at Services Hospital said that different COVID-19 variants may cause less severe illness than earlier strains, but warned the public against dismissing symptoms. Professor Shahbaz Ghori urged anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms to consult a qualified doctor rather than diagnosing or treating themselves.
Residents have been advised to limit unnecessary outdoor activity while air pollution and viral infections remain elevated. Health officials recommend wearing masks and maintaining proper hygiene to reduce exposure to polluted air and help curb the spread of infections.
The surge underscores the combined burden of environmental pollution and respiratory illness on Lahore's public hospitals, which are absorbing tens of thousands of cases within a single week. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as smog conditions and seasonal infections persist.
