Mumbai is witnessing a sharp rise in Influenza A cases, with hospitals and outpatient clinics reporting a growing number of patients suffering from high fever, cough, sore throat and body aches. While doctors say the surge appears "epidemic-like", they stress that there is no need to panic, as influenza follows a seasonal pattern.
According to Dr Prateek Kadian, Consultant Medicine at Maccure Hospital, most healthy individuals recover within a week with adequate rest and supportive care. However, older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions face a higher risk of serious complications.
Influenza A cases on the rise in Mumbai
Dr Kadian said hospitals are seeing a steady influx of patients with symptoms including high fever, persistent cough, sore throat, fatigue, headaches and, in some cases, gastrointestinal issues.
Although the number of infections has increased significantly, he explained that seasonal influenza outbreaks are not unusual and tend to occur periodically.
Who is at higher risk?
While most people recover within five to seven days, certain groups are more likely to develop severe illness. These include:
- Older adults
- Children under five years of age
- Pregnant women
- People with diabetes
- Asthma and chronic lung disease patients
- Those with heart or kidney disease
- Individuals with weakened immunity
According to the expert, these individuals may be at greater risk of complications such as pneumonia, worsening of existing medical conditions and hospitalisation.
Why Influenza A is often mistaken for a common cold
One of the biggest challenges during the current surge is that Influenza A symptoms closely resemble those of the common cold and even COVID-19.
Because of this similarity, many people delay seeking medical advice or self-medicate, which can increase the risk of complications, especially among vulnerable groups.
When should you see a doctor?
Dr Kadian advises seeking prompt medical attention if you experience:
- High fever lasting more than three days
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Severe weakness
- Signs of dehydration
- Symptoms that improve initially but worsen again
He also cautioned against taking antibiotics without medical advice, as Influenza A is caused by a virus and antibiotics do not work against viral infections. Antiviral medicines may help high-risk patients if started within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.
How to protect yourself from Influenza A
The expert recommends following these preventive measures:
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
- Wear a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated places if you are unwell.
- Stay home until your fever subsides to prevent spreading the infection.
- Get the annual influenza vaccine, especially if you are at high risk.
Dr Kadian emphasised that while the public should remain cautious, there is no need to panic. Timely diagnosis, appropriate medical care, vaccination and basic hygiene measures can significantly reduce the impact of the current surge and help protect vulnerable individuals.
Also read: India gets its first dengue vaccine QDENGA: Who can take it, how it works and why it matters
