Viral Fever and Flu Cases Surge Across Hyderabad as Monsoon Rains Linger
Hyderabad is witnessing a significant surge in viral fever and flu cases as the extended monsoon season continues to create favourable conditions for mosquito breeding and respiratory virus transmission. Hospitals across the city, including Government Fever Hospital, Gandhi Hospital, Osmania Hospital and NIMS, have reported a sharp rise in outpatient footfall over the past few weeks.
At Government Fever Hospital, daily OPD numbers have increased from 400 a few weeks ago to 600 now, according to hospital superintendent Dr Musa Khan. Similar trends are being observed at urban primary health centres and private hospitals across the city. Niloufer Hospital is also seeing a rise in paediatric cases, with 100 children being admitted daily with flu-like symptoms including high fever, persistent cough, headache and body aches.
Doctors attribute the surge to the prolonged monsoon rains that have extended well beyond the usual season. The damp conditions have increased mosquito breeding sites and also made it easier for airborne viruses to spread. While viral fever remains the most common diagnosis, dengue and typhoid are also being suspected in several cases.
Early symptoms overlapping
Dr Musa Khan explained that early symptoms of viral fever, H1N1 (swine flu) and dengue are similar, making it difficult to distinguish them initially. “At the same time, we are seeing a surge in influenza-like illnesses,” he said. This overlapping of symptoms has led doctors to stress the importance of timely testing.
Dr Chaitanya Challa, senior consultant at CARE Hospitals, advised people to avoid self-medication and seek medical evaluation if fever persists beyond 72 hours. “Early testing helps differentiate between viral infections, H1N1 and early dengue, which require different management approaches,” he said.
Public health advisory
Telangana director of public health Dr B Ravinder Nayak said the prevailing weather conditions could trigger a further rise in seasonal illnesses, particularly vector-borne, waterborne and airborne infections. He urged people to prevent mosquito breeding around their homes, maintain hygiene and take precautions against infections.
The state health department has advised residents to use mosquito repellents, wear full-sleeved clothing, keep surroundings clean and avoid storing water in open containers. People with fever are advised to get tested rather than relying on over-the-counter medications.
Datos clave
| Metric | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Govt Fever Hospital daily OPD | 600 (up from 400 a few weeks ago) |
| Niloufer Hospital paediatric admissions | 100 children daily with flu-like symptoms |
| H1N1 cases in Telangana | None reported so far |
| Key advice | Seek medical help if fever persists beyond 72 hours |
No H1N1 cases reported so far
Telangana has not reported any H1N1 cases so far this season, according to the health department. However, doctors remain vigilant as flu-like illnesses continue to rise. The state is monitoring the situation closely and has advised hospitals to maintain adequate stocks of testing kits and medicines.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local health advisories and take necessary precautions. The prolonged monsoon means that conditions for viral and vector-borne diseases may persist for some weeks, making preventive measures especially important.
Source: Times of India – Hyderabad (https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/hyderabad-sees-rise-in-viral-fever-flu-cases-amid-prolonged-monsoon/articleshow/133806773.cms)