Mumbai hospitals are witnessing a surge in flu circumstances as rising temperatures are making a beneficial atmosphere for viral infections.
Medical doctors throughout each private and non-private hospitals reported a rise in sufferers presenting with excessive fever, persistent cough, sore throat, and physique aches, signs generally related to influenza and different respiratory infections.
Medical specialists attribute the spike to fluctuating climate situations, which weaken immunity and facilitate the unfold of infections. “Sure, sicknesses are widespread throughout modifications in temperature. The physique has to adapt rapidly to excessive shifts in environmental situations, whether or not chilly or warmth. Frequent signs throughout such transitions embody fever, dry cough, sore throat, and muscle ache,” stated Dr. Sachin Shivnitwar, Professor, Division of Medication, DPU Tremendous Speciality Hospital.
On February 16, Mumbai recorded unusually excessive temperatures, with the IMD Santacruz observatory recording 36.1°C (4.5°C above regular) and Colaba at 32.4°C (2.2°C above regular). A day earlier, temperatures soared to 36.7°C, over 5 levels above regular. The IMD forecasts an extra spike, with daytime temperatures anticipated to succeed in 38°C on Saturday
Public hospitals reminiscent of KEM, Sion, and Nair have reported an uptick in outpatient visits for flu-related signs. “On common, we’re seeing a 30-40% improve in flu circumstances in comparison with final month. Many sufferers are additionally experiencing extended cough and fatigue post-recovery,” stated Dr Mohan Joshi, dean of Sion Hospital. He warned that whereas most circumstances are gentle, some sufferers develop issues reminiscent of pneumonia, requiring hospitalisation.
Non-public healthcare amenities have additionally seen a gentle rise in flu admissions. “We’re getting at the least 15-20 flu sufferers each day, lots of whom require antiviral remedy. The development is regarding, particularly amongst these with underlying situations like bronchial asthma and diabetes,” stated Dr. Kavita Mehta, a common practitioner at a suburban hospital.
Based on epidemiologists, local weather change is enjoying a vital function in shifting seasonal illness patterns. Hotter temperatures and irregular rainfall create breeding grounds for viruses, resulting in extended flu seasons. “Beforehand, we might see a spike in flu circumstances round monsoons and winter. Now, as a consequence of erratic climate patterns, we’re experiencing an prolonged flu season, with circumstances persisting effectively into February and March,” stated Dr. Gautam Bhansali, marketing consultant doctor at Bombay Hospital.
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The Brihanmumbai Municipal Company (BMC) has urged residents to take precautions, emphasising hand hygiene, masks utilization in crowded locations, and vaccination for high-risk teams. “The flu vaccine stays an efficient safety measure, particularly for senior residents, kids, and people with comorbidities,” stated a BMC well being officer.
Medical doctors have suggested the general public to remain hydrated, keep away from self-medication, and search medical consideration if flu signs persist for greater than 5 days.
