Kolkata Hospitals Witness Surge in Viral Fever Cases with Alarming Loss of Smell Symptom
Hospitals across Kolkata are currently experiencing a notable influx of patients presenting with fever and a distinctive loss of smell, symptoms that have triggered widespread panic and a renewed demand for Covid-19 testing. This development is particularly concerning as most healthcare facilities in the city have discontinued their dedicated Covid testing services, leaving many individuals anxious and uncertain about their condition.
Doctors Identify Viral Infections as Primary Cause
Medical experts in the region believe that this symptom, which was once a hallmark of Covid-19 infections, is now being driven by other viral pathogens. They suggest that the viruses currently in circulation may have undergone mutations, leading them to obstruct or damage the nasal sensory or olfactory nerves, thereby causing the loss of smell.
According to doctors, rhinovirus and adenovirus are the primary culprits behind these upper respiratory tract infections. These infections result in congestion in the chest and nasal passages, which in turn leads to the impairment of the sense of smell. At Charnock Hospital, for instance, patients infected with rhinovirus, metapneumovirus, and para-influenza virus have sought treatment over the past few weeks.
Medical Insights from Hospital Authorities
Soumya Sengupta, the head of pulmonology at Charnock Hospital, provided a detailed explanation: "Any infection in the upper respiratory tract affects the respiratory cilia, which are responsible for clearing mucus and facilitating breathing. Once these cilia are compromised, some patients develop post-viral olfactory dysfunction due to damage to the olfactory epithelium. This has understandably caused a scare among patients, but it is reassuring that many regain their sense of smell within two to three days."
Similarly, BP Poddar Hospital has reported numerous cases of patients exhibiting flu-like symptoms and viral fever. Abhijit Aich Bhaumik, a consultant at the hospital, noted: "What initially appears to be influenza can occasionally become severe. In certain instances, isolation and close monitoring may be necessary." Bhaumik further elaborated that viral mutation or genotype variation could be a contributing factor, and in some cases, recovery is prolonged due to secondary bacterial infections.
Treatment Approaches and Precautions
MS Purkait, the medical superintendent of Techno India DAMA Hospital, emphasized that this condition is typically self-limiting. However, he advised: "If a patient continues to suffer from loss of smell for over 15 to 20 days, it is crucial to consult a doctor, as the issue might be related to allergies or nasal polyps."
In cases where bacterial superinfection occurs, broad-spectrum antibiotics are often prescribed, but Bhaumik cautioned that these may not always be effective, especially when the underlying cause remains viral. "The indiscriminate use of antibiotics can lead to resistance. Therefore, clinical evaluation, timely investigations, supportive therapy, and close monitoring are paramount. With appropriate treatment, most patients recover well, though multidisciplinary care might be required in more complex cases," he added.
Distinguishing from Covid-19
Sayan Chakrabarty, an infectious diseases physician at Manipal Hospitals, clarified that while prolonged nasal blockage from common cold or flu can cause loss of smell, it is not identical to the anosmia experienced by Covid-19 patients. This distinction is vital for accurate diagnosis and to alleviate unnecessary panic among the public.
The situation in Kolkata underscores the importance of vigilant healthcare monitoring and public awareness regarding viral infections, especially as symptoms evolve and mimic those of past pandemics.
