Hospitals across Chennai are witnessing a significant rise in respiratory infections and fever cases, with medical professionals reporting that while most patients recover within one to two weeks, many are left battling a stubborn cough that persists for more than three weeks.
Symptoms and Treatment Approaches
Patients are arriving at healthcare facilities with a range of symptoms including cold, fever, headache, fatigue, and in some instances, loss of smell and taste. According to infectious diseases expert Dr Subramanian Swaminathan, the majority of these cases are viral infections requiring symptomatic treatment rather than antibiotics.
"Antibiotics don't work for these viral infections," Dr Swaminathan emphasized. "Sometimes, we prescribe antiviral medicines or medicated nose drops, but the focus is on managing symptoms."
Medical tests have identified the most common culprits as respiratory syncytial virus, H3N2 (a subtype of influenza A virus that typically causes seasonal flu outbreaks), and in rare instances, Covid-19. Additionally, sporadic cases of vector-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya have been reported.
High-Risk Groups and Complications
While most people recover well from these infections, elderly patients and individuals with pre-existing health conditions face higher risks. These vulnerable groups sometimes require hospitalization and intensive care when complications like pneumonia and respiratory distress develop.
Public health officials attribute the spike in fever cases to the monsoon season, which typically sees increased transmission of respiratory viruses. Dr P Sampath, additional director of public health (disease control), advised that elderly people, those with comorbid conditions, and pregnant women should avoid crowded public spaces to minimize infection risk.
Managing Persistent Cough and Prevention Measures
The most common complaint among patients is a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, with many doctors finding cough syrups ineffective for this condition. Instead, physicians recommend warm water salt gargles, consuming soups, and resting the voice.
For children above one year of age, pediatricians suggest trying honey, which naturally soothes the throat, reduces inflammation, and thins mucus, thereby reducing the urge to cough. Doctors strongly advise against self-medication, particularly for children.
"People with fever and flu symptoms must isolate themselves to prevent spreading the infection," Dr Sampath stressed. "Those at higher risk should wear masks in crowded indoor spaces as an additional protective measure."
As Chennai navigates this surge in respiratory illnesses, medical professionals emphasize the importance of appropriate treatment and preventive measures, particularly for the city's most vulnerable residents.
