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Change in weather ushers viral, typhoid

Last Updated 11 May 2012, 20:59 IST

Unexpected showers have brought relief to Delhi, but it might no be all rosy. Instances of typhoid and viral diseases have increased in the city, which are unusual in May.

“In our outpatient department (OPD), patients suffering from viral diseases have increased by 15-20 per cent in the last few days. These are new cases in which patients come for regular check-ups,” said Dr Richa Dewan, medical superintendent, Lok Nayak Hospital.

Similarly, Safdarjung and Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) hospitals have also registered more of such cases. While in Safdarjung the cases have gone up by 23 per cent, in RML the number is up by 15 per cent.

Change in temperature

“The change in temperature levels in Delhi has led to a spurt in cases of viral fever, typhoid and gastroenteritis. Every third patient these days suffers from either viral or typhoid,” said Dr Sanjana Sikri of Pathfinder Health India.

“We are receiving lot of dehydration cases. Due to dust storms, the presence of dust particles in the air contaminates roadside food. The biggest problem is that people eat unhygienic food and fall sick,” said Dr Dewan.

Another expert said this increases microbial load in the environment, which is anyway high in India and its cities.

High load of virus and bacteria in the environment results in infection also among those too who maintain good hygiene.

“Typhoid is common during monsoon. It is caused by salmonella typhi bacteria. It spreads through contaminated food or water. Maintaining good personal hygiene and sanitation is important,” said Dr Sikri.

She added that first signs of typhoid are body ache, sore throat, fever, cold and cough, loose motions or constipation.

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(Published 11 May 2012, 20:59 IST)

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