Hyderabad: A spell of cooler weather, high humidity and early monsoon showers has triggered a surge in seasonal illnesses across Telangana, with both govt and private hospitals reporting a sharp rise in outpatient visits.Doctors said cases of viral fevers, dengue, chikungunya and typhoid have increased over the past few weeks as weather conditions become favourable for the spread of infections.At the Govt Fever Hospital in Nallakunta, OPD attendance has risen by 25-30%, with 650-700 patients visiting daily compared to 500-600 in June. The hospital is admitting 35-40 patients every day, mostly with viral fevers. Gandhi, Osmania General Hospital and NIMS have also reported a steady increase in viral fever and influenza-like illness cases.“Apart from viral fevers, there has been a noticeable spike in dengue cases, while chikungunya and typhoid remain comparatively lower. Most patients present with high fever, body aches, fatigue, sore throat and breathing issues. Changing weather, stagnant water and unhygienic conditions are key factors,” said a senior doctor at the Govt Fever Hospital.Private hospitals are witnessing a similar trend. “Rainfall, humidity and fluctuating temperatures promote viral infections and can temporarily lower immunity. Patients with persistent fever are screened for dengue, though not every fever requires extensive testing,” said Dr Naga Dhana Snigdha Kommana, general physician at Apollo Clinic, Kompally.Director of public health Dr B Ravinder Nayak urged people to stay vigilant. “The prevailing weather is likely to increase vector-borne, water-borne and airborne diseases. People should maintain hygiene, eliminate stagnant water, drink safe water and seek medical care if symptoms persist,” he said.unedited GFX:Do’sRemove stagnant water around homes every week.Keep water tanks and containers covered.Use mosquito nets/repellents and wear full-sleeved clothing.Drink boiled or filtered water and eat freshly cooked food.Wash hands regularly.Consult a doctor if fever lasts more than two days or symptoms worsen.Don’tsDon’t allow water to stagnate.Don’t self-medicate.Don’t consume unhygienic food or unsafe water.Don’t ignore persistent fever, severe body pain or bleeding symptoms.Avoid mosquito exposure during early morning and evening.
