Rising flu cases prompt mandatory vaccination for Umrah pilgrims

Influenza cases are rising in Karachi, with hospitals reporting an approximately 20 per cent increase in patients experiencing high fever, headaches, sore throats, dry coughs, chest infections and body aches.

Amid the surge, the Sindh government has made influenza vaccination mandatory for Umrah pilgrims travelling through Karachi Airport.

Meningitis and polio vaccinations are also compulsory, with pilgrims required to present valid vaccination documents before departure.

Medical experts say the virus is causing symptoms similar to Covid-19, although opinions differ on whether it is a new influenza strain or a modified Covid-19 variant. Pharmacist Dr Usman Ghani said influenza viruses change annually, making updated vaccines important for protection.

Ghani highlighted concerns over counterfeit vaccines, warning that some imported products have reportedly been found to contain distilled water or normal saline instead of vaccines. He urged the public to obtain vaccines from reputable manufacturers and authorised sources.

According to Ghani, influenza cases typically increase with colder weather, starting around October.

Pakistan currently imports approximately 700,000 influenza vaccine doses annually, reflecting growing demand and awareness of vaccination since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Under the new requirements, Umrah pilgrims must receive influenza, meningitis and polio vaccinations, upload their vaccination receipts to the NADRA website and obtain a vaccination card to present at the airport.

Experts stress that vaccination is particularly important for children, elderly people and pilgrims gathering in crowded settings.