LAHORE: The Punjab government has issued a province-wide health alert over COVID-19 and seasonal flu as hospitals prepare for a possible rise in respiratory patients.
The alert directs chief executive officers and medical superintendents to remain prepared. Officials have also been asked to ensure that hospitals can manage increased patient numbers.
The warning comes as hospitals in Lahore report more people with fever, persistent cough, breathing difficulties and body aches. However, authorities have not confirmed that these cases are linked to COVID-19.
Punjab Hospitals Told to Stay Alert
The provincial government warned that outpatient departments and hospital wards could experience increased pressure.
Officials have therefore been asked to keep available medical facilities ready for patients. Hospitals must also remain prepared to respond if respiratory illnesses increase further.
The Punjab government has highlighted seasonal flu as a particular concern for vulnerable groups.
Pregnant women, elderly people and patients with chronic health conditions face a higher risk of complications from influenza.
Citizens Urged to Take Precautions
Health authorities have advised residents to take basic steps to reduce the spread of respiratory infections.
People should wear masks in crowded areas and wash their hands frequently. They should also avoid crowded places when possible, particularly if they develop respiratory symptoms.
The provincial government has also encouraged vaccination against seasonal flu.
Influenza vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent seasonal influenza, according to Lahore General Hospital’s health guidance. The hospital notes that flu can cause severe illness among high-risk groups.
Lahore Sees More Patients With Flu-Like Symptoms
Hospitals in Lahore have reportedly seen more patients suffering from fever, cough, breathing problems and body aches.
However, the exact number of confirmed COVID-19 cases remains unclear.
Reports indicate that government teaching hospitals are not currently conducting COVID-19 tests. As a result, doctors cannot confirm whether patients with similar symptoms have COVID-19 or another respiratory infection.
Recent reporting also noted an increase in patients with COVID-like symptoms in Lahore while testing remained unavailable at some government hospitals.
Claims that more than 2,000 patients visited hospitals within 24 hours have not been independently verified.
Health Authorities Urge Caution
The latest alert does not establish a confirmed COVID-19 outbreak in Punjab. Instead, it reflects concerns over respiratory illnesses and the potential pressure on healthcare facilities.
Meanwhile, the provincial health authorities continue to promote influenza prevention measures. Punjab’s Directorate General of Health Services has also issued public health guidance on seasonal influenza.
People experiencing severe breathing difficulties, persistent fever or worsening symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
For now, health officials are urging residents to focus on vaccination, hygiene and respiratory precautions while hospitals remain prepared for a possible increase in patients.
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