Beware! Upper respiratory tract infections up in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: With rains, the city is experiencing a rise in viral and upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). The cases are increasing because of high humidity and chill in the air.

“Over the last three to four days, we are seeing a rise in Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in both adults and children. Viral infections too have gone up,” said Dr S.M. Prasad, Assistant Professor, Dr B.R. Ambedkar Medical College, who is seeing some 20-25 cases of respiratory infection. “Last week there were many cases of gastroenteritis and this week the trend has changed to URTIs. Those who have a tendency of allergic disorder or allergy are prone to high-risk upper and lower respiratory tract infection,” he said.

Rains bring along with them airborne and waterborne diseases as well as infections. “The number is not alarming, but there is definitely a spike in respiratory infections. We are treating many cases as outpatient," said Dr Shankar Prasad, Medical Director, St Philomena's Hospital.

Typical infections of the upper respiratory tract include tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, sinusitis, otitis media, certain types of influenza, and the common cold. Symptoms of URIs can include cough, sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, headache, low-grade fever, facial pressure and sneezing.

Air-borne infections demand hygiene and cough etiquette. "Cough etiquette should be followed by children and adults. Also, hand hygiene is advisable. Small cough should not be ignored and children should be advised to take rest and avoid school," Dr Prasad said.

Regular exercise, consumption of healthy food and clean water are the basics that prevent majority of illnesses, not only in the rainy season but throughout life, Dr Shankar said.