High fever grips north India, viral, dengue, chikungunya cases on the rise

It is that time of the year again and the nip in temperature is taking a toll. The increase in the number of fever cases in the country has risen some serious concerns.

Along with a cascade of viral diseases, the oncoming of H1N1 virus has contributed to the increasing statistics. In Mumbai alone, the total number of fever cases recorded have reached around 6000 in only the first 15 days of September.

What has come as a surprise this season is the number of viral infections that have amplified. A maximum number of people admitted to the hospitals have been detected with viral infections, viral pneumonia and dengue.

Mumbai has seen 75 deaths due to H1N1 and more than 700 affected. Pune and Nashik, two of the major cities which witness thousands of people gathering and celebrating at this time of the year, have been amongst the worst affected areas.

Viral itself, has been a major problem this year. Multiple patients who came with high fever, cold, sore throat, nausea and other symptoms, were admitted and needed at least a week’s treatment. This was unlike the previous years when viral patients were only given medicines to be consumed at home.

Not only in Mumbai, the problem is persistent in many parts of North India. Delhi also saw a spike in the number of fever cases. Heavy rain and increased humidity have given way to more mosquito-borne diseases. Doctors at multiple hospitals have reported cases where patients have been admitted with different ailments but also show symptoms of dengue, malaria, etc.

Speaking about the increasing viral affected patients in Delhi, Dr Atul Gogia, senior consultant, internal medicine at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, said, “There is about 50 per cent rise in patients complaining of viral and influenza infections. We are also seeing dengue and malaria cases. It is important to keep the body hydrated in this season. However, there is no panic situation in Delhi.”

However, what still remains a question is the role of civic bodies. Be it in Delhi, Mumbai or any other state, a lack in the precautionary measures is clearly visible. As per the records of the Delhi Municipal Corporation, 243 dengue cases have been recorded so far this year. If preventive measures are not taken at this time, the attendance of patients in multi-facility hospitals such as Bhagwan Mahavir Hosptal, Saroj Hopsital, Jaipur Golden Hospital and others, even along with small clinics is only set to increase.