Patna : A surge in viral infections is sweeping through the city, with nearly one in every five households reporting cases of fever, cough, and throat infections. The fluctuating weather, driven by a dip in minimum temperatures and increased humidity, is believed to be a key factor behind the rise in cases.
Doctors at major hospitals, including Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS),and AIIMS Patna, have observed a significant rise in outpatients suffering from seasonal ailments. The influx of patients complaining of persistent cough and throat infections has grown by 30 to 35 percent in recent weeks, with many reporting symptoms lasting up to 10 days even after the fever subsides.
Hospitals Struggle with Rising Caseload
The outpatient departments of PMCH and IGIMS have seen a marked increase in cases, with over 160 patients visiting the medicine department of PMCH daily with throat pain and cough-related complaints. According to Dr. Manoj Kumar Sinha, superintendent of New Gardiner Road Hospital, the best preventive measures include avoiding cold food and taking prescribed medication, which typically brings relief within a few days.
Meanwhile, PMCH Superintendent Dr. I.S. Thakur has noted a 40 percent increase in cases of cold, cough, fever, diarrhoea, and allergies, attributing the rise to the shift in temperatures. “The changing weather has led to a spike in viral diseases, with a growing number of patients seeking medical attention,” he said.
The Role of the Para-Influenza Virus
Medical professionals point to the para-influenza virus as a significant contributor to the current wave of infections. The virus, which spreads through airborne transmission, is known to cause sore throat, congestion, headaches, and joint pain.
Visheshar Rana, a patient at PMCH, shared that he had been struggling with throat pain and cough for over a week. “I first tried over-the-counter medicines, but they didn’t help. Eventually, I had to see a doctor at IGIMS,” he said. Another patient, Abbas, reported lingering symptoms of joint pain and cold after recovering from fever, with doctors diagnosing his condition as a seasonal viral infection.
Doctors Urge Caution as Weather Remains Unpredictable
With temperatures continuing to fluctuate, health experts are urging residents to take preventive measures, including maintaining hygiene, avoiding exposure to cold conditions, and seeking medical attention if symptoms persist. While most cases are mild and treatable, doctors warn that prolonged symptoms should not be ignored.
