In response to the escalating cases of pneumonia-related deaths among children in Punjab, Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has declared an extended winter break for students up to grade 1.
The decision comes as a precautionary measure to protect young children from the harsh cold weather conditions prevailing in the province.
In an emergency meeting held at the Children’s Hospital in Lahore, the Chief Minister not only announced the extension of winter holidays but also directed the postponement of all examinations originally scheduled for this month.
Expressing concern over the alarming situation, Naqvi emphasised that eight out of every 10 children in the province are reported to be suffering from pneumonia.
Particularly distressing is the revelation that a significant number of the deceased children are infants under six months old, underscoring the vulnerability of the youngest members of society to the prevailing weather conditions.