LAHORE: Punjab is grappling with a severe smog emergency, with public health taking a significant hit as 56,571 respiratory disease cases were reported on Thursday alone, according to the Punjab Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department.
In just 24 hours, hospitals across the province treated 3,262 asthma cases, 1,517 ischemic heart disease cases, 92 strokes, and 639 conjunctivitis cases.
The month-long toll is alarming, with nearly 1.93 million individuals seeking medical attention for smog-related illnesses. Over this period, hospitals recorded 124,871 asthma patients, 62,064 ischemic heart disease cases, 5,727 strokes, and 13,735 conjunctivitis cases.
The past week alone has seen a sharp rise in cases, with 439,374 respiratory illnesses, 29,784 asthma cases, 12,651 ischemic heart disease cases, 1,381 strokes, and 4,454 conjunctivitis cases reported across Punjab.
Lahore remains the epicenter of the crisis, with staggering numbers. In the past month, the city has recorded 135,609 respiratory cases, 6,626 asthma cases, 15,028 ischemic heart disease cases, 671 strokes, and 3,044 conjunctivitis cases. The last week alone accounted for 33,051 respiratory illnesses, 2,278 asthma cases, 2,606 ischemic heart disease cases, 274 strokes, and 1,569 conjunctivitis cases. On Thursday, Lahore reported 4,544 respiratory cases, 261 asthma cases, 492 ischemic heart disease cases, 20 strokes, and 212 conjunctivitis cases.
The Punjab government has declared hospitals fully equipped to manage the influx of patients and is urging citizens to adopt preventive measures, including wearing masks, reducing outdoor activities, and using air purifiers at home.
Medical experts warn that the smog crisis demands immediate action to mitigate health risks and prevent further strain on the healthcare system. Citizens are advised to stay updated with air quality reports and seek prompt medical attention for respiratory symptoms.