Why are viral fever cases rising in India?

Over 100 people, mostly kids, have died in one month alone in Uttar Pradesh, said an India Today report. Viral fever cases are also being reported from other districts of UP like Kanpur, Prayagraj and Ghaziabad and have now reached Delhi, Bihar, Haryana, West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh as well.

Owing to the surge in viral fever cases, hospitals and health care centres that were already overwhelmed due to COVID-19 infection are facing additional pressure across these states. Now the question arises where is this sudden wave coming from, is there a new virus behind it or does it have a corona link? 

In this article, we will attempt to answer all such questions about the ongoing viral fever cases.

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Why are viral fever cases rising during this time?

The first and foremost reason that September to late October is a period when most people fall sick due to constantly changing weather, rise in mosquito and insect bites and other viral illnesses. This year, heavy rains in and around Uttar Pradesh and Delhi in September have worsened the condition.

Another reason behind this surge in viral cases is the unlock and easing of COVID protocols. In this period last year, Indians were taking all the necessary precautions against coronavirus. This practice indirectly helped them maintain hygiene and keep the intensity of these infections to a bare minimum.

This year, however, people were wary of spending a year in lockdown and precautions let their guard down and this paved way for various viral fever and other infections like dengue and malaria.

Also Read: How long will COVID last? Experts have their say on what to expect

Poor immunity to routine flu infections is also a contributory factor to a higher than before flu outbreaks right now.

When do you need hospitalisation?

1- If fever persists beyond 3-4 days despite medications.

2- If the temperature is constantly above 102-103 degrees Celcius despite medications.

3-  Even if fever is not present but one does not feel like consuming food or liquids.

4- Extreme pain in the limbs or rashes on the body or less urine output is less.