Hyderabad: The number of stomach flu cases has significantly gone up in the city in the past month, due to the rainy season. Fever Hospital received around 15 cases on Wednesday, averaging 10-11 cases a day this week. In July, the cases increased to 20 daily in the first two weeks.
Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, commonly known as stomach flu. It is characterised by different digestive symptoms caused by infection with viruses, bacteria or parasites. "Norovirus and rotavirus are the most common viral causes. Salmonella, E. coli and campylobacter are frequent bacterial culprits," said Prof. Narahari Bapanpally, head of the paediatrics department at Nagarkurnool Medical College. "The usual symptoms include vomiting, fever, loose motions, and in some cases blood in the stool and dehydration," he added.
Stomach flu can spread very easily through contaminated food or water and due to close contact with an infected person. "Prevention includes practicing good hygiene, drinking clean water and ensuring food safety. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical attention is advised," Prof. Narahari said.
Ranga Reddy district has recorded 116 total acute diarrheal cases in May and June each. In July, the cases were around 100, as per the data shared by the DMHO Dr Venkateswar Rao. Similar data for Hyderabad could not be obtained as the DMHO was not reachable.
Treatment for Gastroenteritis includes relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration. Doctors recommend consuming WHO-ORS to replace lost fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration, zinc drops or syrup help reduce the duration and severity of diarrhoea, particularly in children, probiotics restore healthy gut bacteria and antibiotics are given to treat bacterial causes. Moreover, IV fluids are given only if there is severe dehydration. “People must refrain from eating outside food and maintain personal hygiene. Drink boiled water. Wash hands before and after consuming food,” Prof. Narahari suggested.
