Patients experiencing COVID-19-like symptoms are reportedly turning up at government teaching hospitals in Lahore in increasing numbers, while a lack of testing facilities is making it difficult to determine whether they have COVID-19 or another respiratory illness.
According to sources, hospitals are receiving patients with symptoms such as cough, fever, breathing difficulties and severe body aches on a daily basis.
Suspected Cases Remain Unconfirmed
Despite the reported increase in patients showing COVID-like symptoms, government teaching hospitals are currently not conducting COVID-19 tests, sources said.
As a result, doctors are unable to confirm whether the symptoms are linked to COVID-19 or another respiratory infection.
The absence of testing is also making it difficult for hospitals to maintain a clear picture of suspected infections and identify confirmed cases.
Hospitals Yet to Arrange COVID Testing
Sources said government teaching hospitals have not arranged testing facilities despite the reported arrival of more patients with symptoms associated with COVID-19.
Without testing, healthcare workers have limited ability to distinguish between COVID-19 and other illnesses that can cause similar respiratory symptoms.
No Confirmed Rise in Lahore COVID Cases
The lack of testing has also limited the ability of health authorities to track suspected cases and assess whether there is any wider spread of the virus in Lahore.
So far, no official data has confirmed an increase in COVID-19 cases in Lahore. The reported rise is based on patients presenting with COVID-like symptoms at government teaching hospitals, where suspected cases are reportedly not being tested.
Further testing would be needed to determine whether these symptoms are being caused by COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses.
