As the National Capital is flooded with upper respiratory tract infections, almost everyone is reporting symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, coughing bouts, high fever, blocked sinuses, headache, swollen tonsils.
Amidst this flu season, cases of Influenza B and H1N1 (swine flu) are most reported across Delhi-NCR. However, in the current flu season symptoms are lasting longer, a week and 10 days even, and are accompanied by high grade fever.
Dr. Suranjit Chatterjee, Sr. Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals told Financial Express.com that the flu symptoms this season in Delhi-NCR are more severe due to a combination of factors.
“The fluctuating weather, with sudden temperature shifts, has created an ideal environment for viruses to spread, while poor air quality has further weakened respiratory health, making people more vulnerable to complications. Additionally, the circulation of aggressive viral strains like H1N1 (swine flu) and Influenza B has led to more intense symptoms, including high fever, persistent cough, and respiratory distress,” Dr. Chatterjee said.
Certain groups face a higher risk of severe illness, including young children with underdeveloped immune systems, the elderly with age-related immunity decline, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease,” he explained.
Dr. Chatterjee also emphasised that obesity is also a risk factor, as higher BMI levels have been linked to increased flu severity.
Dr. Tushar Tayal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram told Financial Express.com that he has been getting 15-20 patients daily in OPD with flu like symptoms, in all age groups. “Elderly and infants are experiencing more severe symptoms and requiring hospitalization as well,” he said.
“Simultaneous circulation of other respiratory viruses, such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), can lead to co-infections, exacerbating the severity of symptoms,” Dr. Tayal said.
Who is at more risk?
Certain populations are more susceptible to severe influenza complications:
- Age: Children under five and adults over 65 are at heightened risk.
- Chronic Conditions: Individuals with underlying health issues, including asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and weakened immune systems, face increased risks.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant women are more vulnerable to severe influenza outcomes.
- Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, smoking, and crowded living conditions can elevate the risk of contracting the flu.
Which strains are most dominant?
Doctors have revealed that influenza B cases are responsible for majority of the cases. It is noteworthy that this virus mostly infects humans, is less common than influenza A and mutates slowly.
When to consult a doctor?
Whenever your symptoms persist and don’t improve consult a doctor. Do not take antibiotics and wait for your doctor to give you antivirals if needed.
How can you prevent the infection?
To mitigate the impact of the current flu surge:
- Vaccination: Annual flu vaccinations are crucial. recommended.
- Hygiene Practices: Regular handwashing, wearing masks in crowded places, and maintaining physical distance can reduce transmission.
- Environmental Control: Addressing air pollution and improving indoor air quality can strengthen respiratory health.