Public hospitals across Karachi experienced a notable rise in patients suffering from stomach ailments throughout the three days of Eid ul Adha. Many individuals reported symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain during the festival, which was observed from May 27 to May 29.
Eid ul Adha, also known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” commemorates the Qur’anic story of Prophet Ibrahim’s (PBUH) readiness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah, a test that was ultimately replaced with a ram. The festival is marked by prayers, family gatherings, charitable activities, and the ritual slaughter of livestock including bulls, goats, and camels. The meat is then distributed among relatives, friends, and those in need.
In a significant development, Civil Hospital’s Emergency In-charge Dr. Imran reported that over 100 patients sought treatment on the second day of Eid, presenting with vomiting and abdominal pain. The following day, the hospital admitted more than 100 individuals suffering from gastric issues.
Similarly, Jinnah Hospital received over 50 patients with stomach-related complaints on the first day of Eid. Emergency In-charge Irfan Siddiqui attributed the increase in vomiting, diarrhoea, and indigestion cases to excessive meat consumption, insufficient water intake, and an imbalanced diet during the festivities.
Medical professionals highlighted that consuming large quantities of meat while neglecting vegetables and hydration can overload the digestive system. They recommended incorporating salads, vegetables, and adequate water intake alongside meat to prevent digestive problems. Additionally, experts advised the public to avoid overeating meat in a single sitting to reduce the risk of stomach illnesses.
