1 week ago

Doctors Urge Vigilance as Influenza Cases Rise in Delhi-NCR

Doctors Urge Vigilance as Influenza Cases Rise in Delhi-NCR
Flu Cases Rise in NCR: Dr. Abhijeet Singh on Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention · theprint.in

Flu cases are increasing in the Delhi-NCR area.

One type of flu involved is called H1N1, also known as swine flu.

Flu can cause fever, coughing, sore throat, tiredness and body aches.

Most mild cases can be managed with rest, fluids and advice from a doctor.

Some people can become seriously ill, especially if they already have health problems.

Antibiotics usually do not work against flu because flu is caused by a virus.

People should seek medical help for breathing trouble, chest pain, confusion, low oxygen or symptoms that get worse.

Covering coughs, washing hands, avoiding close contact when sick and improving indoor ventilation can reduce spread.

Doctors also say some higher-risk adults may benefit from an annual flu vaccine after medical advice.

Key facts

Illnesses discussed
Influenza and H1N1, an Influenza A subtype
Reported trend
Delhi has seen a significant rise in H1N1 cases this year
Common symptoms
Fever, cough, sore throat, runny or blocked nose, headache, body aches, weakness and fatigue
Possible complication
Influenza can progress to pneumonia, particularly in some people with underlying illnesses
Treatment
Rest, hydration and symptomatic treatment are commonly advised for uncomplicated cases; doctors may recommend antivirals for selected patients
Urgent warning signs
Breathing difficulty, persistent high fever, chest pain, confusion, severe weakness, low oxygen saturation or worsening symptoms
Prevention
Hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding close contact when symptomatic, better ventilation and masks in crowded or poorly ventilated settings
Vaccination
Annual influenza vaccination may be considered for appropriate adult age and risk groups after medical advice

Quotes

Dr. Abhijeet Singh

Pulmonologist at ShardaCare Healthcity, Greater Noida

“Influenza is caused by a virus, so antibiotics do not routinely treat the infection. People should avoid taking antibiotics or antiviral medicines without medical advice. If there is breathing difficulty, persistent high fever, chest pain, confusion, severe weakness, low oxygen saturation or worsening symptoms, medical evaluation should not be delayed.”
theprint.in
“Influenza can present with sudden fever, cough, sore throat, headache, body ache, fatigue and chills. In some patients, particularly those with underlying respiratory or other chronic illnesses, the infection can progress to complications such as pneumonia. The important message is not to panic, but also not to ignore persistent or severe symptoms.”
theprint.in

Sources

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