Islamabad : As soon as the spring has arrived, residents of Rawalpindi and Islamabad are facing a rise in flu, cough, and pollen-related allergies, making daily life increasingly difficult for many households. The changing weather, with warm afternoons and cool evenings, has created conditions that are contributing to the spread of viral infections and respiratory issues across twin cities.
Medical experts explain that this seasonal transition weakens the body’s immunity, leaving people more vulnerable to flu viruses. At the same time, the arrival of spring brings a sharp increase in pollen levels, particularly from paper mulberry trees, which are still widespread in Islamabad. The government informed that that they are eradicated paper mulberry from Islamabad but still high quantity of pollen play havoc with the health of residents of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The high concentration of pollen in the air is triggering allergic reactions among a large segment of the population, especially those already suffering from asthma or other respiratory conditions. Teary and itchy blood shot eyes, running nose, constant sneezes, headache, flue are all symptoms triggered by pollen allergies.
Hospitals and clinics in both cities are reporting an increasing number of patients complaining of persistent cough, throat irritation, fever, sneezing, and breathing difficulties. Doctors say that, in many cases, entire families are being affected simultaneously, indicating how quickly seasonal flu is spreading. Among all, children and elderly individuals are among the most vulnerable, often experiencing more severe symptoms and takes much longer to recover.
Housewives, who manage daily household routines, say the situation has added to their challenges. A resident of Satellite Town, Shazia Batool, shared that most of the family members in her home is currently suffering from one or another type of flue making it difficult to maintain normal routines. She explained that her children have missed school due to flu, while constant coughing and weakness have disrupted her work. Another housewife Naureen , expressed concern over the fact that her children are suffering from pollen allergies from weeks but never resort to wear a mask before heading out.
Elderly residents are also feeling the impact more intensely. Many report worsening respiratory conditions during this time of year.
Ashir Khan, an asthma patient, said that stepping outside has become increasingly difficult as it often leads to coughing and shortness of breath.
Similarly, 68-year-old Shahida Begum shared that she now prefers to stay indoors, as exposure to the outdoor environment immediately causes itching in her eyes and continuous sneezing. Wearing mask is the only way to go out for these two months when allergies are at its highest.
Health experts are urging citizens to take preventive measures to protect themselves during this period. They advise minimizing outdoor exposure, especially during peak pollen hours, and maintaining proper hydration to strengthen the immune system. Doctors also recommend wearing masks when stepping outside and following medical advice in case of persistent symptoms.
The pollen count of paper mulberry in H-8 was 6430 and 2454 in G-6, on Saturday.
