Health authorities confirm presence of Super Flu virus in Pakistan
ISLAMABAD: Health authorities have confirmed the presence of the so-called Super Flu virus in Pakistan, raising concerns as the country enters peak winter season when respiratory illnesses typically surge.
According to officials from the Ministry of National Health Services, cases of severe influenza-like illness have been reported from multiple cities, prompting laboratories to conduct detailed testing. The results confirmed circulation of a highly contagious influenza strain, commonly referred to as “Super Flu”, which is known for causing intense symptoms and rapid spread.
Health experts said the virus presents with high-grade fever, persistent cough, sore throat, severe body aches, fatigue and, in some cases, breathing difficulties. Children, elderly individuals and people with weak immune systems are considered most vulnerable to complications.
Officials clarified that while the virus is not new globally, its aggressive spread this season has led to increased hospital visits across major urban centres, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and Peshawar. Government hospitals have reported a noticeable rise in patients complaining of flu-like symptoms over the past two weeks.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) has advised provincial health departments to remain vigilant and strengthen surveillance systems. Hospitals have been instructed to ensure availability of medicines, isolation facilities and protective equipment to manage a potential increase in cases.
Medical professionals have urged the public not to panic but to take preventive measures seriously. These include frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded places, avoiding close contact with infected individuals and seeking medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Doctors also warned against self-medication, particularly the unnecessary use of antibiotics, stressing that influenza is a viral illness and misuse of drugs could lead to further health complications.
Health authorities said vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the severity of influenza and have encouraged high-risk groups to receive flu shots where available.
The government has assured that it is closely monitoring the situation and will issue further advisories if required, while urging citizens to remain cautious and follow health guidelines to curb the spread of the Super Flu virus in Pakistan.
