Pulmonologist Dr. Irfan Malik has raised concerns about a new smog-borne virus spreading in Lahore, emphasizing that households become susceptible once one member is infected. The virus presents symptoms such as high fever, body aches, upset stomach, and a phlegmy cough.
Hospitals and clinics are reportedly seeing an influx of 30 to 40 patients infected with the virus daily, with a higher impact on children and the elderly. Despite the prevalence, no deaths from the new virus have been reported thus far.
The caretaker Health Minister of Punjab, Dr. Javid Akram, acknowledged the high prevalence of the current virus, suggesting a potential connection to COVID-19. As smog levels persist in Lahore, the city has regained its position as the second most polluted in Pakistan, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of over 400, indicating unhealthy air quality. The initial artificial rain to combat smog showed temporary improvement, but the recent AQI readings highlight ongoing pollution challenges in the city.