Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Pechuho Denies Reports of Coronavirus Outbreak in Karachi
Islamabad:Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Pechuho has issued a statement addressing rumors about a rise in COVID-19 cases in Karachi. In her statement, she clarified the number of cases and the severity of the illness.
Dr. Azra Pechuho stated that the reports of an outbreak in Karachi are false. She further explained that 100 individuals were tested for COVID-19, and of these, 7 tested positive. These individuals were actually suffering from seasonal flu and influenza, and their COVID-19 tests were conducted as a precautionary measure.
The Health Minister emphasized that the people who tested positive for COVID-19 only exhibited mild flu symptoms and, as a result, were sent home. She added, “COVID-19 is now being treated like the flu around the world, and it has become like a seasonal flu. There is no need to panic.”
In addition, the Sindh Health Department has issued emergency guidelines for hospitals regarding COVID-19 and influenza H1N1 cases. The Director-General of Health Sindh has instructed all district health officers to ensure alertness at health centers, with all medical and non-medical staff required to wear masks. Patients with symptoms of cold, cough, or flu are strongly advised to get vaccinated.
The Director-General also instructed that all health officers should report patient details to the health department on a weekly basis, and anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19 or influenza should be immediately isolated.
It should be noted that two days ago, infectious diseases expert Professor Saeed Khan had reported that 25-30% of patients coming to Dow Hospital in Karachi with cough and fever were testing positive for COVID-19. He also confirmed that 10-12% of patients were diagnosed with influenza H1N1, and 5-10% of children were testing positive for RSV and other respiratory viruses. He mentioned that many patients do not get tested, which results in undiagnosed cases.
Professor Saeed Khan pointed out that the symptoms of these viruses overlap, including fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. He further mentioned that the loss of taste and smell is a distinguishing symptom of COVID-19.
According to him, these diseases spread rapidly in winter, and poor ventilation systems significantly contribute to the spread of these viruses. He urged the public to follow safety measures, wear masks, cover themselves, and get the annual flu vaccine.
