The monsoon season in Delhi-NCR has brought a surge in waterborne and vector-borne illnesses, leading to crowded hospital outpatient departments (OPDs). From viral fevers and skin infections to gastroenteritis, dengue, and typhoid, the influx of patients has been significant, with doctors noting a sharp increase in cases starting from July. This trend is expected to continue throughout August and possibly into September.

Increased Hospitalizations and Common Symptoms

Doctors across various hospitals in Delhi-NCR have reported a noticeable spike in patient numbers, particularly for viral fevers, gastroenteritis, and skin infections. Senior consultant of internal medicine at Gurugram-based Narayana Hospital, Dr. Pankaj Verma, states that they treat nearly 50-70 patients weekly suffering from these conditions.

Viral Infections

Viral infections are the most prevalent, with many patients presenting with high fever, chills, body aches, and fatigue. Dr. Verma emphasizes that these are the most common symptoms of viral fevers circulating during this season.

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis, characterized by vomiting and diarrhea, is also a significant concern. The increased humidity associated with the monsoon season contributes to the spread of these infections.

Skin Infections

Skin infections, including fungal infections and dermatitis, are frequently reported due to the damp and humid conditions.

Children’s Health Concerns

Children are particularly vulnerable to viral infections during monsoon, with viral upper respiratory infections and viral diarrhea being prevalent. Dr. Maninder Dhaliwal, an expert in paediatric pulmonology at Faridabad-based Amrita Hospital, highlights these as common ailments among children.

Typhoid

Typhoid cases, consistent with the usual monsoon trend, are also observed among children.

Hepatitis A and E

Hepatitis A and E, caused by the consumption of contaminated food or water, are not uncommon during the monsoon season. They result in liver swelling.

Dengue

Dr. Dhaliwal notes that dengue cases are just beginning to appear among children.

Other Infections

Beyond viral fevers and gastroenteritis, the monsoon season also brings about a rise in dengue, typhoid, and other viral infections.

Dengue and Typhoid

Dr. Sumit Ray, medical director at Holy Family Hospital, states that there is a 10-20% increase in OPD and IPD admissions due to fever associated with viral infections, dengue, and other viruses in August and September each year.

H1N1

Dr. Ray further points out that H1N1 (swine flu) cases are more prominent this season.

Chikungunya, Zika, and Malaria

Dr. Jatin Ahuja, senior consultant, Infectious Disease, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, has also observed cases of chikungunya, Zika, and malaria in addition to various flu viruses, including influenza B.

Diagnosing and Treating Infections

Early diagnosis is crucial to effectively manage the wide range of infections prevalent during monsoon. Dr. Ahuja stresses the importance of timely testing. Delaying testing beyond three days of fever can complicate the diagnosis as the tests might no longer pick up the infection.

Overlapping Symptoms

Many of these illnesses share similar symptoms, posing challenges in immediate diagnosis. For example, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika can present with overlapping symptoms like rashes and joint pain.

Typhoid Symptoms

Typhoid usually begins with a mild fever hovering around 99 degrees for a day or two.

Prevention and Protection

To protect oneself during the monsoon season, individuals are advised to follow basic hygiene practices like washing hands frequently, consuming boiled water, avoiding street food, and maintaining personal hygiene. Mosquito control measures are essential, such as using mosquito nets, insect repellent, and keeping surroundings clean and free of stagnant water.

Take Away Points

• Monsoon season brings a surge in waterborne and vector-borne illnesses in Delhi-NCR, leading to crowded hospital OPDs.
• Viral fevers, gastroenteritis, and skin infections are common.
• Children are particularly vulnerable to viral infections.
• Dengue, typhoid, chikungunya, Zika, and malaria are also prevalent.
• Early testing is crucial for effective treatment.
• Maintaining proper hygiene and implementing mosquito control measures are vital for prevention.