An unknown viral disease is affecting hundreds of people in the Saudabad neighbouhood of the city, Geo News reported on Saturday.

According to Senior Health Director Dr Abdul Wahid Panwar, initially the behaviour and symptoms of the virus are similar to dengue, with patients experiencing having high grade fever, severe body pain to the extent that people are unable to walk or sit.

According to the medical superintendent of the Sindh Government Hospital, Saudabad, Dr Rehana Bajwa, so far more than 1,500 people, including women and children, have visited the hospital.

Dr Bajwa added that the majority of patients were coming from Saudabad, Pipri, Gadap and Bin Qasim.

The health expert further said that to avoid the virus, people should care about cleanness and use mosquito repellents.

When asked about treatment, Dr Bajwa said the virus was self-remitting and patients would take at least 25 days to recover.

Patients are being given pain killers and fluids to reduce body temperature and pain.

A committee has been formed by the senior director of health services to investigate the disease and also start an awareness campaign.

When asked if the viral disease was Chikungunya, Health Director Dr Abdul Wahid Panwer said that an investigation was under way, and measures needed to be taken to control the spread of mosquitos.