More than 1,000 patients with cold-related ailments sought treatment at six large public-sector hospitals
The province of Punjab is facing a growing public health challenge as an intense cold wave continues to sweep across the region, triggering a sharp rise in respiratory and viral illnesses.
Lahore and other major cities are witnessing an unprecedented rush at public hospitals, where doctors report a continuous increase in patients suffering from super flu, influenza, viral infections, chest complications, pneumonia and high fever.
A survey of patient flow at major government hospitals in Lahore reveals a troubling situation. Over the past 24 hours, more than 1,000 patients with cold-related ailments sought treatment at six large public-sector hospitals. Mayo Hospital alone received more than 300 patients, while Jinnah Hospital treated over 250. Services Hospital and Lahore General Hospital each recorded more than 200 cases, while the Children’s Hospital admitted over 100 young patients showing flu and respiratory symptoms.
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Hospital corridors, emergency units and outpatient departments remain overcrowded throughout the day. Patients, many wrapped in blankets, can be seen waiting for hours as medical staff work under intense pressure.
“The number of patients is far beyond our routine winter load. Most of the patients are senior citizens and young children,” said Dr Fareed, senior medical officer at Mayo Hospital Lahore. “Most are suffering from super flu, influenza, pneumonia, chest infections and other cold-related diseases. A large number are also presenting with high fever, severe cough, breathing difficulties and body aches. Many cases are more aggressive than the usual seasonal flu,” he added.
Health experts link the surge directly to the ongoing cold wave, which has significantly lowered temperatures, particularly during night-time and early morning hours. Prolonged exposure to cold, combined with poor air quality and smog, has weakened immune responses, making people more vulnerable to infections.
Doctors note that super flu cases are spreading rapidly, with symptoms including nasal congestion, sore throat, persistent cough, high fever, muscle pain and shortness of breath.
A worrying trend is the rising number of pneumonia cases among children and elderly citizens. Paediatric wards are under particular strain as young children with compromised immunity are brought in with breathing problems. Elderly patients, especially those with heart disease, diabetes, asthma or other chronic conditions, are also facing severe complications. Pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems have been categorised as high-risk.
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“Cold weather allows viruses to survive longer and spread faster. People stay indoors with limited ventilation, which increases transmission. Those who ignore early symptoms often end up in hospitals with serious complications such as pneumonia,” said Dr Abdul Basit, former medical superintendent of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
Hospital administrations admit that despite preparations, the scale of the outbreak has stretched resources. Bed shortages, limited staff and overcrowded emergency rooms have become routine, with some patients treated in hallways or waiting areas due to a lack of space.
“Our doctors and nurses are working extended shifts, but the inflow of patients is relentless,” said a hospital official at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
Medical experts are urging the public to take preventive measures seriously. The use of face masks in crowded areas has been strongly recommended, along with frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Doctors have also emphasised the importance of seasonal flu vaccination, particularly for children, senior citizens, pregnant women and those with chronic illnesses.
“Vaccination does not just reduce the risk of infection; it also lowers the severity of the disease,” said Prof. Dr. Sabahat.
Meteorological trends indicate that the cold wave is likely to persist over the coming days, with chilly nights, cold mornings and dry conditions expected to continue. Health experts warn that if temperatures remain low, respiratory illnesses may increase further, adding pressure on hospitals already operating at capacity.
Doctors advise citizens to keep themselves warm, consume nutritious food, stay hydrated and seek medical advice at the first sign of illness, warning that self-medication and ignoring symptoms could lead to serious health consequences.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has extended school holidays in view of the prevailing weather conditions.
“This is dangerous weather, especially for young children and elderly people. The public should avoid unnecessary outings and use face masks, as the super flu is at its peak,” said Dr Masood Sheikh, president of the General Cadres Doctors Association.
A Punjab Health Department spokesperson said hospitals across the province had been alerted in response to the rise in super flu cases and cold weather. “At present, the best possible arrangements have been made at hospitals, and special counters have already been set up to deal with cold-related diseases,” the spokesperson added.
