Bhubaneswar Reports 50-100% Surge in Persistent Cough Cases as Summer Approaches
As summer approaches, the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack have witnessed a dramatic 50-100% rise in cases of persistent cough accompanied by throat irritation and breathlessness, with or without fever, body aches, and headaches, over the last three weeks. This alarming trend has prompted health experts to issue warnings and recommendations for the public.
Doctors Identify Mutated Viruses as Primary Cause
Medical professionals have identified mutated viruses from the coronavirus group, which are less virulent, along with influenza viruses, as the primary culprits behind this health condition. Dr. Sitikantha Nanda, a senior consultant in internal medicine and diabetes at a private hospital, explained that such health issues are being observed post-Covid-19.
"Coronaviruses and influenza viruses are mutating and becoming less virulent. These mutated viruses do not create pneumonia or any severe conditions, but patients are facing difficulties getting rid of the cough," Dr. Nanda stated.
He reported seeing at least 12 such cases in his outpatient department (OPD) daily, compared to just eight patients three weeks ago, marking a 50% increase. Patients complain that their cough persists for up to 15 days or even a month, often after exposure to crowded places such as marriage ceremonies, large parties, or mass gatherings at fairs and festivals.
Children Experience 100% Increase in Cases
Among children, the rise is even more pronounced, with cases nearly doubling. Dr. Nilamadhab Jena, a pediatrician from Bhubaneswar, noted that he now sees 20 children daily with complaints of persistent cough and viral fever, up from around 10 three weeks ago.
"I prescribe different medicines to children, but the cough does not subside easily. We give nebulizers to kids when they develop respiratory issues," Dr. Jena explained, highlighting the challenges in treatment.
Government Facilities Also Report Doubled Patient Numbers
Government healthcare facilities are not immune to this surge. Dr. Jayanta Kumar Panda, professor of general medicine at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, reported receiving at least 30 such patients now, double the number from three weeks ago. He attributed this to seasonal changes as summer sets in.
Dr. Pradeep Narayan Sahoo, an internal medicine consultant, added that many people are reporting coughs lasting over a month, throat irritation, and sometimes difficulty breathing. He linked this to post-Covid-19 airway hyperreactivity resulting from inflammation caused by the virus and changes in the body's immune response.
"Season change, increased temperature, dust and pollen, and air pollution can worsen the symptoms," Dr. Sahoo emphasized, pointing to environmental factors exacerbating the condition.
Preventive Measures and Treatment Recommendations
Doctors are treating patients based on their symptoms and advising preventive measures. Dr. Nanda recommended that vulnerable individuals take flu shots and practice good hygiene.
Key recommendations include:
- Washing hands frequently to reduce virus transmission.
- Using masks while visiting crowded places to minimize exposure.
- Seeking medical advice if symptoms persist beyond a few days.
- Considering flu vaccinations for high-risk groups, such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.
This health alert comes as Bhubaneswar and surrounding areas brace for the summer season, with experts urging residents to stay vigilant and adopt preventive practices to curb the spread of these viral infections.
