As temperatures dip, Bengaluru is witnessing a steady increase in cases of seasonal influenza and other respiratory infections.
Doctors in both government and private hospitals are reporting a rise in footfall of patients with flu-like symptoms, attributing the trend to changing weather conditions.
Seasonal influenza is a viral infection that spreads mainly through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces. While it is generally self-limiting and lasts five to seven days, health officials cautioned that infants, the elderly, pregnant women, immunocompromised persons, and those on long-term medication, including steroids, are at higher risk of complications and may require hospitalisation.
Outpatient departments in government hospitals are seeing a surge in the footfall of patients.
Doctors at the State-run Victoria Hospital said, “People with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, diabetes, allergies, and heart disease are particularly vulnerable. More than 40% of those affected are aged over 65.”
