Festival season sees rise in respiratory diseases in city

Rithu Dravid | NT

Bengaluru: Yes, festival season time can be a reason for increased respiratory issues. The rising virus surge especially the RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) has increased the risk for vulnerable groups including older and younger children in the city.

Symptoms like breathing difficulties, persistent cough, myalgia, fever and prolonged fatigue are some of the distinguished features of the present flu virus.

Doctors say the flu virus exposure is more among toddlers, school going kids and the elderly especially people with comorbidities. This seasonal viral infection which is highly contagious spreads through the eyes, nose or mouth. It spreads through direct contact with infected persons with coughing, sneezing, handshakes, and touching infected objects.

“We have seen a considerable rise in the RSV cases and saw just 4 to 5 cases in the last 6 months, however now the number of proven cases has risen to 5 to 6 cases per week. Changing weather is the key contributor to the sudden increase in infections. In severe cases one might notice respiratory distress such as wheezing or a whistling sound while breathing and change in skin colour due to lack of oxygen”, says Dr Brunda, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital.

Doctors say the severity of the infection depends on individual cases.

“Some who already have underlying lung issues are more prone to the slightest of infections. The RSV can range from just a respiratory infection to a severe form of the disease like Pneumonia. The RSV affects both the upper and lower respiratory tract causing airway inflammation. In children the virus causes airway inflammation in the smaller airways. This could lead to Bronchitis and Bronchiolitis in kids”, says Dr Shivalingaswamy Salimath, Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist, Trustwell Hospitals.

Furthermore the RSV infections unfortunately are not showing signs of cooling off but remain elevated. Although it is a reversible condition doctors strongly recommend influenza and pneumococcal vaccines for children and people above the age of 50 years.

They encourage people to get their flu shots ahead of winter as a best preventive measure to boost immunity to fight against infections and protect against the severity of the disease.

Fortunately every year, new vaccines are produced against the new present virus. It is best for people to avoid crowded places during festivals that can increase the risk of respiratory infections.

However, wearing a mask in public, staying home when sick and getting vaccinated is the need of the hour.