The alarming rise in acute respiratory infections (ARIs) among children in Rawalpindi highlights a growing healthcare concern this winter. Local hospitals report an overwhelming influx of young patients, with many suffering from respiratory conditions like pneumonia. Immediate preventive measures can help mitigate the severity of the situation.
Hospitals Overwhelmed by Pediatric Cases
Rawalpindi’s three main hospitals—Holy Family Hospital (HFH), Benazir Bhutto Hospital (BBH), and Rawalpindi Teaching Hospital (RTH)—have received over 24,000 child patients in December alone. Data shows that 20% of these cases involved ARIs, while nearly 4% were diagnosed with severe pneumonia.
Holy Family Hospital reported the highest numbers, with 1,583 children suffering from respiratory infections and 392 diagnosed with severe pneumonia out of 11,383 total cases. BBH received 665 cases of ARIs and 287 pneumonia cases, while RTH treated 923 children with ARIs and 188 with pneumonia out of its 6,119 pediatric patients.
A Major Cause of Mortality in Children
ARIs, categorized into upper and lower respiratory tract infections, are a leading cause of death among children under five, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan. Globally, respiratory infections, especially pneumonia, account for 20% of mortality in this age group.
Health experts emphasize that children are more vulnerable during winter months. Respiratory infections are ten times more prevalent than all other illnesses combined during this season. Symptoms such as colds, sore throats, coughs, and flu are common, often leading to complications if not addressed promptly.
Preventive Measures Can Minimize Risk
With temperatures expected to drop further, health professionals warn of a potential spike in ARIs if preventive measures are not followed. Parents are advised to ensure their children are adequately protected against cold weather and potential exposure to viruses.
Simple steps like keeping children warm, maintaining hygiene, and ensuring proper nutrition can significantly reduce the risk of respiratory infections. Vaccinations against preventable illnesses and timely medical attention for symptoms are also crucial.
Read: Health Ministry Urges Precaution Against Winter Respiratory Infections
Managing the Healthcare Burden
Despite the rise in cases, Rawalpindi’s allied hospitals report that the current patient load is manageable. However, healthcare providers remain vigilant, anticipating an increase in cases as the winter season progresses.
Dr. Jahangir Sarwar Khan, Principal of Rawalpindi Medical College and In-charge of Allied Hospitals, stressed the importance of parental awareness and timely action. “Parents must follow preventive measures religiously to minimize the losses caused by ARIs,” he advised.
Raising Awareness to Combat ARIs
Public awareness campaigns can play a vital role in reducing the impact of ARIs. Educating communities about early symptoms, preventive care, and when to seek medical help can help alleviate the strain on healthcare facilities and save lives.
The rising incidence of ARIs serves as a reminder of the critical importance of preparedness and preventive healthcare. By taking proactive steps, parents and healthcare systems can work together to protect children from the dangers of respiratory infections this winter.
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