Over the past 24 hours, an alarming increase in cold weather has claimed the lives of twelve more children in Punjab due to pneumonia, as reported by the provincial health department.
Pneumonia, an infection causing inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs, has led to 491 new cases in children within this period, bringing the total in Pakistan’s largest province to 10,061. The death toll in Punjab has now reached 194.
The surge in pneumonia cases has triggered severe shortages of medication in Lahore, where numerous children are undergoing treatment for pneumonia, chest issues, and various viral infections. Symptoms of pneumonia, ranging from mild to severe, include chest pain, cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.
The situation has prompted concerns, especially with the reported shortages of essential medicines. In Lahore, medical facilities are grappling with the overwhelming number of cases, exacerbating the challenges posed by the harsh winter conditions.
The signs and symptoms of pneumonia, if left unaddressed, can lead to serious complications, making it crucial to address the current healthcare crisis promptly.