Lahore is currently dealing with a concerning surge in pneumonia cases, especially among children, as the mercury levels consistently drop. Over the last 24 hours, the city has reported over 100 suspected cases, prompting authorities to announce additional vacations for nursery and prep classes across the province.
This alarming situation is illustrated across Punjab, where 35 children have lost their lives to pneumonia in the last 10 days, with an additional 730 suspected cases registered in a single day.
In Lahore alone, the numbers are overwhelming, with 1,456 pneumonia cases reported in the last seven days and a unbelievable 121 cases emerging within just 24 hours. Medical experts emphasize that the seasonal disease has predominantly affected children under the age of five, amplifying the gravity of the situation.
The severity of the pneumonia outbreak has prompted caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi to extend winter vacations for nursery and prep classes throughout the province by an additional week. This proactive measure aims to relieve the spread of the disease and protect the health of young children.
The rising arrival of patients has placed a strain on hospitals across Lahore, with dozens seeking medical attention daily. Medical professionals note that a significant portion of reported deaths are within the age group of one year or below, underscoring the exposure of the very young to this respiratory illness.
Experts attribute the surge in pneumonia cases in Lahore to the harsh cold weather conditions. With the minimum temperature dropping to 4 degrees Celsius, the Met Office predicts that Punjab will continue to experience dry and cold weather in the coming days, putting further challenges in controlling the outbreak.
As Lahore and Punjab are dealing with this pneumonia outbreak, urgent measures are being taken to address the escalating health crisis. The extension of winter vacations and increased medical awareness are crucial steps in managing the situation. Efforts are underway to provide medical assistance to those affected and to prevent further spread, highlighting the need for public cooperation and vigilance in the face of this seasonal health challenge.
