Karachi hospitals report rise in stomach illness cases during Eid ul Adha

KARACHI: Public hospitals in Karachi saw a noticeable increase in patients with stomach-related complaints during the three days of Eid ul Adha, as many people arrived with vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

Eid ul Adha was observed in Pakistan from May 27 to May 29, during which Muslims sacrificed bulls, goats and camels over three days. The festival marks the Qur'anic account of Prophet Ibrahim's (PBUH) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah, before the sacrifice was divinely replaced with a ram. The occasion is also associated with prayers, family gatherings and charitable distribution of sacrificial meat among relatives, friends and underprivileged people.

Hospitals record increased patient load

Civil Hospital Emergency In-charge Dr Imran said more than 100 patients came to the hospital on the second day of Eid with complaints of vomiting and abdominal pain. He added that more than 100 patients suffering from gastric illnesses also reached the facility on the third day of Eid.

At Jinnah Hospital, more than 50 patients with stomach-related ailments were brought in on the first day of Eid. Jinnah Hospital Emergency In-charge Irfan Siddiqui said cases involving vomiting, diarrhoea and indigestion had risen because of excessive meat intake, reduced water consumption and an imbalanced diet.

Doctors advise moderation and hydration

Medical experts said eating large quantities of meat while cutting back on vegetables and water could put extra pressure on the digestive system. They advised people to include salads, vegetables and sufficient water in their meals alongside meat to reduce the risk of stomach problems.

Experts also urged citizens not to consume too much meat in a single sitting, warning that dietary excess during the holiday period could contribute to digestive complications.