ISLAMABAD: The ongoing dry spell has caused a surge in respiratory and other cold-related illnesses in the public hospitals of the federal capital. According to Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) spokesperson Dr Mubashir Mushtaq Daha, the healthcare facility provided emergency medical services to around 50 patients daily on average. Currently, 20 to 25 elderly patients were admitted to the hospital, he said. Moreover, over 150 patients were being examined for various illnesses such as colds, flu, pneumonia, etc, at the hospital’s outpatient department (OPD) daily. Executive Director Pims Professor Dr Imran Sikander has directed the Head of the Emergency Department Dr Sharjeel to ensure the best possible treatment to patients visiting the facility. He has also directed doctors in other departments of the hospital, especially pulmonology wards, to ensure the provision of the best medical facilities to patients. Dr Sikander has urged citizens to take precautionary measures during the ongoing dry spell. “Wear a mask when leaving the house and use lukewarm water for drinking. Aged people should be cautious of the dry cold so that diseases can be avoided,” he said. The provision of the best medical facilities to all patients is being ensured by utilising all resources,” he added.