If the trail of destruction left behind after the deluge is something to worry about, doctors have warned that there is a high possibility of an outbreak of diseases, and a rise in cases of viral and respiratory ailments in the aftermath of rains.
Hospitals that are already reporting a significant rise in cases of respiratory, viral, and vector-borne infections over the last two weeks and it is expected that the number of patients is likely to further increase.
Inclement weather
With the inclement weather conducive for viruses, bacteria, parasites and a variety of other pathogens to thrive, doctors in major government hospitals said that they are seeing at least 10-15 patients with lower and upper respiratory tract infections, viral fever, and other related infections daily. Most of them are reporting with complaints of sore throat, fever, runny nose, cough, allergic bronchitis, asthma, and middle ear infections.
Brunda M.S., Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine at Aster CMI Hospital, said the early onset of the monsoon has led to a surge in upper respiratory infections.
Apart from fever, sore throat, persistent cough, bodyache, nasal congestion, and fatigue, some have also reported wheezing, shortness of breath or deterioration of pre-existing condition in individuals with asthma, and bronchitis, the doctor said.
After travel
Pointing out that most people are getting infected after traveling during the ongoing school vacations, Dr. Brunda said the change in place, weather, and even water sources is triggering flu, viral infections, and respiratory issues, especially among children and the elderly.
Sachin Kumar, Director – Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, Sakra World Hospital, said the hospital has noticed a rise in influenza-like illness in the past two weeks.
“We are seeing patients reporting with a one-day fever or mild fever accompanied by cough and cold. We are also seeing one to two pneumonia cases that require hospitalisation. Some of these pneumonia cases are related to viral infections, seasonal flu, or bacterial pneumonia. Around 40% of patients that we have seen over the past two weeks have reported upper respiratory infections with symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, and cold,” he said.
Fewer dengue cases
While the onset of monsoon and the resultant water stagnation typically leads to an increase in dengue cases, this year the number of dengue cases has been significantly lower compared to previous years, said Aravinda G.M., Consultant – Internal Medicine at Manipal Hospital Jayanagar.
“We have noticed a sudden rise in the last two weeks following unseasonal rains. We are expecting a further increase in the aftermath of the current rainy spell. Most flu patients – who present with fever, body aches, and throat pain – recover well with symptomatic treatment. However, elderly individuals and those undergoing chemotherapy or dialysis may experience more serious complications and have to be more careful,” the doctor added.
Published – May 20, 2025 11:07 pm IST
