Respiratory ailments including influenza, cough, sore throat, pneumonia and diarrhoea are affecting a growing number of people largely due to an ongoing dry spell across the city. Flu related problems have hit a large number of people, particularly children, as patients with such complications were seen in high numbers at public and private hospitals. Dr Usman Basra, a child specialist, while talking reporters, said that many patients with flu-related diseases including cough, flu and throat problem, pneumonia, diarrhoea were visiting the hospitals every day. He said that parents should ensure that their children wear warm clothes at all times. “I also advise parents not to let their children out in the evening as humidity level is reduced and dryness in the air increases respiratory diseases among children and others”.