Viral fever cases up by 20%, children most affected in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad

: A change in weather conditions and the subsequent drop in temperatures have led to an increase in cases of viral fever in the city.

According to the general physicians’ association, the cases are up by about 15-20% compared to the past fortnight. A few cases of dengue have also been reported.

Vector-borne diseases including malaria and chikungunya have not surfaced in large numbers, they added.

Dr Kamlesh Naik, president of Ahmedabad Family Physicians Association (AFPA), said that across the city, the clinics and hospitals are witnessing a rise in fever cases.

“While some cases of fever are associated with Covid-19, a majority are to do with viral infection – it’s more prevalent in children and in clusters with more than one family member getting infected,” he said.

Dr Pragnesh Vachcharajani, a city-based physician, said that if fever persists for more than a day, the doctors must be consulted to rule out any other reason.

“Fever develops when the body fights the infection, and it can happen in several ailments ranging from swine flu to seasonal flu and even Covid. So, rather than just relying on trusted medicines, it’s important to consult experts once,” he said.

Dr Dhiren Sanandiya, a city-based family physician, said that children, senior citizens and those with lower immunity must be careful and focus on overall well-being which includes a balanced diet, avoiding unhealthy food, using mosquito repellent, and masks if people around them have a cough, cold or fever.