It’s been weeks, but every second person you meet or speak to has the flu, cold, or cough, and conversations end with, “Oh, it must be due to the weather change.”
According to reports, a recent survey conducted by LocalCircles revealed that fever, sore throat, cough, headache, stomach troubles, joint pain, and respiratory problems are among the symptoms of swine flu (H5N1) reported to be present in 54 percent of households in Delhi. The survey also found that small children and the elderly (those over 50) are most at risk for contracting these symptoms.
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But can this be the case? Are flu cases or flu-like illnesses on the rise in Delhi-NCR? The doctors in the National Capital Region agree.
“Flu cases or flu-like illnesses are always usually more common in the winter season. Every year, we see a peak in flu cases from October to January. This time, however, it is affecting larger population and also extending beyond its normal period. The reasons for this rise could be multiple – the increasing pollution, the increasing severity and duration of illness, and, of course, large gatherings may also have led to an increase in the number of cases. There is more exposure to infected individuals, and you are more likely to catch an infection in such a situation,” said Dr Anshumala Sinha, Senior Consultant Physician at Felix Hospital, Noida.
Dr Ramani Ranjan, Senior Consultant & Head of Neonatology & Pediatrics at Apollo Cradle and Children’s Hospital, Greater Noida, agrees that sudden weather change or dramatic environmental changes lead to a surge in viral infections. “The weather has been unpredictable. It’s been extremely hot during the day, and the temperature cools slightly at night. Winters and early spring, we do have a surge in viral infections in general.”
Dr Ramani Ranjan adds, “We get cases of H1N1/H3N2 or other cases like Mycoplasma and some cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). It’s not just regular flu but a mix of cases including viral or bacterial infections.”
Symptoms
Flu symptoms can range from mild viral illness with mild fever and bodyache lasting 1-2 days to severe illness resulting in hospitalisation. “The majority of cases present with high fever, chills, severe bodyache, headache, bad cough, throat pain and extreme fatigue or weakness with loss of appetite,” said Dr Anshumala Sinha.
The doctor does admit that there could be gastrointestinal symptoms. “There could be gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. And in the case of children, they can also have other symptoms, like rashes over the body and itching,” claims Dr Ramani Ranjan.
Preventions
Doctors believe it’s really important for the child to get flu vaccination only if he/she is eligible. “ Apart from the usual precautions we take, what’s important for children is getting flu shots when they are eligible for it. During this period, one must take plenty of fluids,” said Dr Ramani Ranjan.
The first and foremost prevention everyone must strictly adhere to is avoiding contact with infected individuals.
But how can one follow that?
“This can be done by avoiding crowded places, using a mask when there is a chance of contact with infected people, and increasing immunity with good eating habits and lifestyle so that even if they get the virus, their body can fight it and prevent them from becoming sick,” said Dr Anshumala Sinha.
Even for adults, flu vaccination is a must. “Flu vaccine can prevent you from getting a severe illness. These vaccinations should be taken once a year by all, especially the elderly, children, people with other medical conditions or anyone who has a weak immunity due to any reason,” adds Dr Anshumala Sinha.
When Should You Visit The Doctor?
Doctors do suggest that if the symptoms are mild, with mild fever and bodyache. Then the individual can rest at home. “With mild fever and body ache, people can take paracetamol, fluids, and rest at home. But if symptoms are severe or prolonged, seeing a doctor for better treatment or an alternative diagnosis is always advisable,” Dr Anshumala Sinha.
Similar is the case when it comes to a child. “If the fever is more persistent, like more than 102°F or 103°F, and it’s been more than three days, if there is fast breathing, a child is drinking less than usual water or eating less than normal, passing less urine, lethargic, the child is off-colour. These are the signs parents must keep in mind and monitor, and it is advisable to see a paediatrician,” Dr Ramani Ranjan.
How Long Does The Flu Last?
“Flu usually lasts for 3-5 days, and in some cases, we have seen it last a little longer, like 7 days, and very rarely, 10 days. It all depends on what kind of virus, what infections, which system is involved. How much has the child been hydrated throughout, and what is the vaccination status? A lot of things come into play,” admits Dr Ramani Ranjan.
In adults, it can vary. “ The flu illness can last from 2-3 days up to maybe 2 weeks, depending on severity. Usually, high fever, headache, and body pain last for 3-5 days, but cough, weakness and poor appetite may last up to 10 days – 2 weeks,” Dr Anshumala Sinha.
