KARACHI:The Sindh Health Department has instructed all district health offices to implement measures aimed at preventing a rise in Covid-19 and H1N1 influenza cases across the province.
Considering the ongoing winter season and the potential spread of these diseases, the health department emphasized the urgent need for these measures to curb further transmission, as reported on Monday.
The department has directed district health officers to adhere to the issued guidelines and strengthen active surveillance for Covid-19 and H1N1 cases across all healthcare facilities in their jurisdictions.
“Ensure timely and accurate reporting of suspected and confirmed cases from healthcare facilities and laboratories to the provincial health office. Guarantee the availability and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other essential supplies at all healthcare facilities,” stated the provincial department.
Health officers were instructed to educate communities about the importance of seasonal influenza vaccination, especially for vulnerable groups such as healthcare workers, elderly individuals, and patients with chronic illnesses.
They were also tasked with reinforcing infection prevention and control (IPC) practices in both public and private healthcare facilities and launching public awareness campaigns focusing on preventive measures like mask-wearing, hand hygiene, and social distancing.
“Disseminate information about the symptoms of Covid-19 and H1N1, and emphasize the importance of seeking timely medical care,” the department added, directing the submission of weekly situation reports detailing case numbers, interventions, and challenges.
The department urged strict compliance with these instructions, prioritizing public health to prevent the spread of infections.
In Karachi, an estimated 30% of patients presenting with cold and cough symptoms are testing positive for Covid-19.
According to Professor Saeed Khan, an infectious disease specialist at Dow University Hospital, a significant number of individuals in the city are experiencing cold, cough, and fever.
Tests show that 25% to 30% of these patients are Covid-19 positive, while 10% to 12% have Influenza H1N1, and 5% to 10% of children are suffering from respiratory tract infections.
Professor Khan further highlighted that the symptoms of Covid-19, Influenza H1N1, and other winter-related viral infections are similar, with many patients avoiding testing, resulting in undiagnosed cases.
