Bengaluru: Rain brings viral fever, dengue, swine flu back

Bengaluru: A few days of heavy rain and the city is already feeling under weather with many lining up at the doctors complaining of fever and chills. "Dengue is coming back especially around the lakes. We are also seeing respiratory bronchitis add a milder variant of lower respiratory tract infection," said Dr Sudha Menon, Director, Internal Medicines, Fortis Hospital.

“People are also coming down with viral fever with symptoms including a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and muscle aches.  The viruses may cause diarrhea, vomiting, or an upset stomach," she explained, assuring that for the most part, these viral illnesses would improve with time. 

“Antibiotics will not treat a viral infection. Symptoms can be treated using decongestants and anti-fever medications bought over the counter. If diarrhoea or vomiting occurs, then the person needs to be encouraged to drink fluids," said Dr Shankar Prasad, Medical Director, St Philomena's Hospital.

Both doctors advise people to take precaution against swine flu.  Dr Ambanna Gowda, Consultant Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road says the symptoms are similar to those of other flu strains and include fever (in some cases), cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, watery, red eyes, body aches, headache, fatigue, diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting.

“These take one to three days to show up once a patient has contracted the virus. Pregnant women and patients with chronic disease such as asthma, emphysema, diabetes or a heart condition are at higher risk of contracting the flu. Avoid crowded places and any self-medication. Vaccination is available in hospitals but it is advisable to consult the doctor before taking them. It is required only for people with low immunity and people traveling to the epidemic region," advised Dr Gowda. 

According to the latest data shared by the Health Department, some 2651 passengers have been screened for Zika in the state. The highest number of passengers screened were from Brazil(1242) and Mexico(573). "Regular screening of passengers  from Zika affected countries is being done every day at the airport and the information is shared on a daily basis with the state Surveillance Unit. Till date no case has been identified," said Dr Shalini Rajneesh, Principal Secretary, Health Department.