PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The extended monsoon and ongoing fluctuations in temperature have led to an increase in cases of viral infections, vector-borne diseases and other ailments among both adults and children in Dehradun, according to doctors. They claimed that the current temperatures seem to be favourable for viruses to survive, which has directly contributed to the rise in cases of viral infections, including fever, cold and other symptoms among the affected age groups. Doctors stressed the importance of taking precautions during this period to protect themselves from viral infections and other illnesses.
Senior physician at Deen Dayal Upadhyay District Hospital Dr Praveen Panwar stated that the temperature fluctuations have increased the incidence of viral infections, which typically have a healing duration of about 15 days. He said that about a week ago the influx of patients with such infections was at its peak. The inconsistent weather, alternating between sunny and rainy, has affected people, leading to cold, cough, fever and other related symptoms. He said that older individuals and smokers are particularly vulnerable, as these viral infections often progress to pneumonia in these groups. Typically, such viral infections are more prevalent in October; however, this year, there has been an early onset. Additionally, waterborne diseases, which usually decline during this time, have persisted.
To avoid these infections, individuals are advised to take precautions, such as maintaining a balanced temperature; for instance, if one is in a warm place and suddenly visits an area with rain, they may catch an infection. The said instance should be avoided. It is also important to stay hydrated. Smokers, individuals with diabetes, and the elderly should consult a doctor immediately if they experience symptoms in their throat or elsewhere, rather than waiting and risking pneumonia, he said.
“Ailments among children are currently at a peak due to viral infections, waterborne diseases, vector-borne diseases, influenza and other illnesses related to these temperature fluctuations,” said pediatrician at Shri Mahant Indiresh Hospital Dr Vishal Kaushik. He said, “I encounter over 100 cases daily of children suffering from these infections in the OPD, and the IPD wards are also filled with children. Common symptoms of these ailments, including vector-borne diseases, include muscular pain, headache and fever. Fever is a prevalent symptom across all types of infections. To prevent these illnesses, parents should ensure their children follow necessary precautions. This is a period with increased virus survival, so parents should make sure their children wear full-sleeved clothing to protect against vector-borne diseases, maintain hygiene, consume a balanced diet and seek medical attention promptly if children encounter any symptoms.”
