Karachi Flu Cases Double Amid Seasonal Shifts

Flu Cases Double At Karachi Hospitals In Over A Week Amid Seasonal Changes

November 2, 2026

2 minute read

Seasonal changes and a drop in night-time temperatures have led to a surge in Karachi flu cases, with cases doubling at some major public hospitals. Hospitals throughout the city are experiencing more emergency department visits, with doctors saying they’re seeing more patients coming in with fever, body aches, fatigue and respiratory symptoms.

Karachi Flu Cases Double At Major Hospitals

The number of flu-related complaints at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) has jumped from approximately 30-40 daily visits to the emergency to 70-80. Dr Ruth Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi is also seeing a big surge, with daily flu cases now reported at around 30-40, as opposed to earlier 8-10 or 15-20.

The Aga Khan University Hospital has reported nearly 400 cases of influenza, including the H1N1 strain. All ages are affected, but a significant proportion of severe presentations are in young adults aged between 18 and 30 years, particularly among heavy smokers and labourers.

Children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems or other underlying health conditions are at increased risk of complications. The most common symptoms are a persistent high fever, severe body aches, headaches, dry cough, sore throat and fatigue. Some patients have taken longer to recover, and the infection has been passed around families.

Health Experts Recommend Vaccinations And Safety Measures

Health professionals have told residents to take precautionary measures as seasonal influenza is circulating in Karachi. Face masks in crowded places, regular hand washing, staying hydrated and avoiding close contact with others when ill can help control transmission.

Sindh’s health department officials and infectious disease experts advise people to take the influenza vaccine every year, particularly those at the highest risk. People with flu-like symptoms are also advised to stay home while sick for at least 24 hours and seek medical advice. Hospitals are monitoring cases to ensure timely treatment and public awareness.