ISLAMABAD: The National Institute of Health (NIH) has issued a precautionary advisory on the prevention and management of viral influenza, particularly the H3N2 strain, following an increase in cases both globally and within Pakistan.
The advisory calls on provincial health departments and relevant institutions to implement timely preventive and control measures.
Healthcare facilities have been urged to gear up for a potential surge in patients in outpatient and inpatient departments over the coming months.
According to the NIH, influenza is a contagious viral respiratory illness caused by Influenza A and B viruses, triggering annual seasonal outbreaks worldwide. Influenza A is noted to spread more readily and often causes more severe disease, especially among the elderly, children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart and lung diseases.
The advisory highlights the emergence of a new genetic subclade of Influenza A (H3N2), designated as Subclade K, during the 2025–2026 flu season.
Since August 2025, various regions monitored by the World Health Organization have recorded a sharp increase in H3N2 infections.
In South-East Asia, influenza detection rates have risen significantly, with H3N2 comprising 66 percent of all reported Influenza A cases between May and late November 2025.
Cold, dry weather leading to high influenza cases in Islamabad
Due to intense cold and dry weather, there has been a noticeable spike in influenza-like cases across Islamabad.
Clinics and hospitals are filled with cases of Influenza-like illness (ILI) and respiratory syncytial virus, which are caused by influenza. Patients complain of flu, cough and fever. Children and the elderly are said to be the worst hit.
Health specialists say the sharp rise in flu, cough, fever, chest congestion and breathing problems is linked to the ongoing cold and dry spell and the lack of rainfall.
In Islamabad, influenza-like cases are notably higher due to unstable weather, dry cold conditions, low precipitation and heavy tourist movement to and from the northern areas.
Experts urge people to eat traditional winter foods like dry fruits, warm soups, flaxseed ladoo and panjiri to keep the body warm. Parents should ensure children stay covered with sweaters, caps, gloves and socks.
They warn that even small lapses in this season can lead to serious infections, so taking precautions is vital.
MET OFFICE FORECAST
Meanwhile according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department Islamabad and most parts of the country continue to face cold weather for the next 24 hours.
Most districts of Balochistan are also expected to stay chilly, while a cold and dry spell will continue across much of Punjab. Murree and Galiyat are also likely to remain cold and dry.
Dense fog is expected in Lahore, Sialkot, Narowal, Sheikhupura and Gujranwala. Fog is also likely in Gujrat, Jhelum, Sahiwal, Multan, Khanewal and Kot Addu. Meanwhile, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Rajanpur and nearby areas may experience smog.
Gilgit-Baltistan will stay cold with partly cloudy skies, while Azad Kashmir is also expected to remain cold, according to the Met Office.
