A significant flare-up of infections related to seasonal flu, influenza, and other viral infections has been reported by doctors, immunologists, and public health specialists in Hyderabad. The recent surge in infections could indicate an unknown viral origin circulating within the community.
In the past week, the city has seen a noticeable increase in flu cases, raising concerns that this could precede a significant wave of upper respiratory infections, including severe pneumonia. This trend echoes last year’s outbreak in March 2023, where Hyderabad experienced a surge of influenza A (H1N1) and A (H3N2) cases, as confirmed by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) surveillance data.
Hospitals in Hyderabad are currently seeing patients with seasonal flu symptoms that rapidly progress to upper and lower respiratory tract infections, affecting the lungs. The rise in the prescription of the antiviral drug Oseltamivir, known by the brand name Tamiflu, suggests that some flu-positive patients, especially those with comorbid conditions, are experiencing severe symptoms.
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“We are witnessing extreme flare-ups of infections in the last ten days in Hyderabad,” said Dr. Vyakaranam Nageshwar, a senior immunologist. “Due to immunological changes among a large section of the population during the Covid pandemic, even a simple flu is now intensifying into upper and lower respiratory tract infections. I hope this rise does not lead to a major surge of pneumonia or viral infections.”
Despite the surge, senior doctors at Fever Hospital, Nallakunta, the nodal government healthcare facility for seasonal ailments, have yet to observe a major increase in viral infections. “Currently, we are seeing typical seasonal flu cases, which is normal due to weather changes, and some sporadic dengue cases. We have not observed a trend indicating a major flare-up of pneumonia-like cases,” said Dr. K Shankar, Superintendent of Fever Hospital. He advised the public to continue taking precautions and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.
The government has issued an advisory for individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms, such as a persistent fever, headache, sore throat, body aches, or conjunctivitis, to visit nearby health facilities. Immediate medical consultation is recommended if fever persists for more than three days.
Symptoms of Flu:
- Fever
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Cough
- Wheezing
- Chest congestion
- Body pains
- Lethargy
- Difficulty in breathing, which could lead to low oxygen saturation
Prevention Tips:
- Avoid shaking hands, sharing food, water, and clothes with sick individuals.
- Wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizers to avoid infection.
- Minimize touching door handles, table tops, lift buttons, stair banisters, and railings in public places.
- Cover your mouth while sneezing or coughing to prevent spreading the infection.
- Use disposable tissues if you have a cough or cold and discard them after use.
- In case of any health emergency, call 108 ambulance services.
As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from viral infections.
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