Viral fever, dengue cases up due to change in weather

A sharp increase in viral fever cases has been reported in the district due to the sudden change in the weather. The Civil Hospital’s Outpatient Department (OPD) is now handling over 120 patients daily, with around 30 to 40 of them suffering from viral fever and about 10 to 12 cases of bacterial infection.

Health officials say that this marks a considerable spike from August, when only 10 to 12 cases of fever were recorded daily. They said the fluctuating weather, marked by unpredictable temperature changes and high humidity, is contributing to the spread of viral infections.

“The constant shift in climate weakens the immune system, leaving people more vulnerable to infections. Crowded areas and inadequate hygiene practices are also speeding up the transmission of the virus, putting more pressure on local hospitals”, they added.

Health experts said the viral fever symptoms such as high temperature, body aches, sore throat and extreme fatigue are keeping many patients bedridden and they are urging residents to take precautions.

Senior Medical Officer at the Civil Hospital emphasised the importance of maintaining hygiene and avoiding public gatherings to curb the spread of the virus. He also advised people to strengthen their immune systems by eating healthy, staying hydrated and getting sufficient rest. Besides, if the symptoms last more than 10 days, necessary tests must be done to diagnose the cause, he said.

In addition to viral fever, the risk of dengue is also escalating in the district. Health experts warn that the same weather conditions fostering viral infections are also ideal for the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue. So far, 53 dengue cases have been reported in the district. The Health Department has been conducting door-to-door inspections to identify and destroy mosquito breeding grounds, with dengue larvae being found in over 900 homes.

Health officials said with the rise in dengue cases, the department has also intensified testing for fever patients and is urging people to use mosquito repellents and keep their surroundings clean to prevent further outbreaks.

“The residents are advised to seek timely medical attention for any persistent symptoms as both viral fever and dengue pose serious health risks during this season”, they said.