Pakistan President tests positive for COVID, these were his symptoms

Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari has tested positive for COVID. As per reports the 69 year old leader is currently in isolation. He was flown from Nawabshah to Karachi and admitted to a private hospital on Tuesday, following complaints of respiratory issues, infection and fever.

According to Dr Asim Hussain, the President's physician, "this was confirmed after multiple tests, and he has now been placed in isolation and his health is being monitored round the clock."

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, presents a wide range of symptoms, varying from mild to severe. Symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure and can affect the respiratory system, digestive system, and overall well-being.

The most common symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Many patients also experience fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, and sore throat. Loss of taste or smell is a distinctive symptom that often signals COVID-19 infection. Some individuals may have nasal congestion, runny nose, or conjunctivitis (pink eye).

Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea have also been reported. In severe cases, COVID-19 can lead to difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, and bluish lips or face, requiring immediate medical attention. Certain groups, including older adults and individuals with underlying conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immunity, are at higher risk of severe illness.

Is this a new variant of COVID?

Reports of a new variant of COVID in Australia has brought to fore LP.8.1. A descendant of Omicron, LP.8.1 was first detected in July 2024 and has been put under the "variant under monitoring" category by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

However, there is no information about the variant type responsible for the Pakistan President's COVID infection.

Zardari has faced various health issues in recent years. He previously tested positive for COVID-19 in July 2022, though he only experienced "mild symptoms" at the time. In October 2024, he suffered a foot fracture while deboarding an airplane and was immediately hospitalised. Following medical assessment, his foot was placed in a cast.

(With inputs from agencies)