Islamabad: Pakistan is witnessing a sharp rise in seasonal influenza cases as the National Institute of Health has confirmed the active circulation of Influenza A (H3N2), with children in several cities falling ill and Karachi hospitals reporting pneumonia and flu-related deaths linked to the virus.
Laboratory data available with Vitals News show multiple confirmed Inf-A/H3 cases at NIH in late November and early December, with most patients between one and ten years of age.
Children presented with high fever, persistent cough and, in many cases, shortness of breath, with temperatures ranging from 38 to 40 degrees Celsius. NIH officials confirmed that H3N2 is circulating this season and is responsible for a significant share of influenza-like illness nationwide.
In Karachi, clinicians at the Aga Khan University Hospital and other leading facilities have observed a notable increase in influenza-related pneumonia among children, particularly those with asthma, allergies or weakened immunity.
AKU infectious diseases experts told Vitals News that H3N2 is known for deeper lung involvement compared to several other influenza strains, which explains the rise in patients presenting with chest congestion, wheezing and breathing difficulty.
Doctors in Karachi have also linked recent respiratory-related deaths in children to complications from influenza A, noting that while subtype confirmation is not always conducted in fatal cases, the clinical pattern strongly aligns with severe seasonal influenza in years when H3N2 dominates.
They added that rapid temperature fluctuations, indoor crowding and low influenza vaccination coverage are intensifying the burden of respiratory infections this winter.
Outpatient departments in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and other major urban centres are reporting a surge of children with acute fever, chest symptoms and flu-like illness. Many are testing positive for H3N2, while others display classic features of the virus even when diagnostic testing is limited.
Paediatricians warn that delayed treatment is contributing to complications, particularly viral pneumonia and secondary bacterial infections.
Health experts emphasise that Pakistan is now in its peak influenza window, and H3N2 is expected to remain the dominant strain over the coming weeks.
They are urging the public to take early symptoms seriously, avoid sending sick children to school, maintain warm indoor environments, encourage hand hygiene and seek prompt medical attention if a child develops fast breathing, chest retractions, refusal to eat or fever that does not subside.
NIH teams have instructed hospitals to strengthen influenza testing, monitor clusters closely and report severe cases without delay. Doctors stress that while most children recover with timely care, pneumonia can progress quickly, making early assessment crucial for vulnerable groups.
Public health specialists advise that vaccination remains the most effective preventive tool for high-risk individuals, and parents should consult physicians about immunisation for children with chronic conditions. They added that good ventilation, rest, hydration and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics are essential for safe recovery.
With influenza A now firmly established this season, authorities are urging vigilance but not panic, noting that Pakistan can prevent most complications through early diagnosis, responsible care and stronger community awareness.
Ends