Over the past 24 hours, the toll of pneumonia has claimed the lives of six more children in Punjab, according to a report from the health department on Tuesday. The Punjab Health Department revealed a concerning surge with 475 new cases of pneumonia reported in the last day, with a significant portion of these cases, specifically 175, identified in Lahore alone.
The overall number of deaths due to pneumonia in the region has now reached a troubling 347, reflecting an additional six deaths recorded in the mentioned period. The cumulative count of pneumonia cases in Punjab stands at 25,073, with Lahore reporting 5,334 cases, as reported by health authorities.
Pneumonia, an infection in the lungs often caused by viruses, can manifest following symptoms of a cold or flu and can range in severity. Children aged five or younger are typically more susceptible to this respiratory infection.
Health authorities in Punjab are actively addressing the escalating cases of pneumonia, emphasizing the crucial role of public awareness and preventive measures to curb the spread of the infection. The situation underscores the pressing need for community education on recognizing symptoms, seeking prompt medical attention, and adopting preventive measures, including vaccinations where applicable.
Common signs and symptoms of pneumonia include chest pain during breathing or coughing, confusion or changes in mental awareness (particularly in adults aged 65 and older), cough with phlegm production, fatigue, fever accompanied by sweating and shaking chills, lower than normal body temperature (especially in adults older than age 65 and those with weakened immune systems), and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, along with shortness of breath. The health authorities continue to work diligently to manage the situation and minimize the impact of pneumonia on the population, particularly among vulnerable demographics such as young children.
