Loss of taste and smell remains key COVID-19 symptom as winter exacerbates spread
Coronavirus resurges in Pakistan. Karachi is witnessing a surge in Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, with 25 to 30 percent of patients presenting cold and cough symptoms testing positive for the virus.
As per the details, Professor Saeed Khan, an infectious disease expert at Dow Hospital, highlighted a noticeable increase in patients reporting symptoms such as cold, cough, and fever. Among these, 25 to 30 percent have been confirmed as COVID-19 cases after testing.
Additionally, Professor Khan noted that 10 to 12 percent of patients are being diagnosed with Influenza H1N1, while 5 to 10 percent of children are showing signs of respiratory infections. He emphasized that the similarity in symptoms between COVID-19, Influenza H1N1, and other seasonal viral infections often leads patients to avoid testing, delaying proper diagnosis.
At Dow Hospital, many patients with symptoms like fever, cold, and cough have tested positive for COVID-19. The hospital has also observed a rise in cases involving respiratory difficulties and other related complications.
One distinguishing symptom of COVID-19 remains the loss of taste and smell, although overlapping symptoms make it challenging to differentiate it from other viral infections. Experts point out that the rapid spread of these diseases is exacerbated during winter, particularly in poorly ventilated environments.
Health authorities are urging the public to adopt preventive measures, including wearing masks, maintaining proper hygiene, and staying warm. Vaccination against influenza is also being recommended to reduce the risk of viral infections.
