New viral fever triggers concern

Spurt in fever cases with the onset of monsoon in the City

For instance, BGS Hospitals has received 10 to 15 patients suffering from viral syndrome over the last two weeks.  "The patients come in a very bad condition and have multiple organ dysfunction. In other words, the patients are diagnosed with abnormal liver and kidney functioning and fluid collection in stomach and lungs," said Dr Aravinda Jagadeesha, consultant physician.

However, it is difficult to identify the virus, as the patient’s report shows negative for other known diseases like dengue, malaria or chikungunya.  The doctor said if it is not contained initially, the patient's condition would worsen. As most patients come in a bad state, they are immediately hospitalised with the patient recuperating within five to seven days. As for common viral fever like cold, cough, sore throat and fever, the hospital is getting at least five cases daily.

Relapse of chikungunya

Similarly, one or two cases of viral syndrome are being detected even at KC General Hospital everyday. And, most are from Nelamangala area.  The hospital also has been receiving two cases of malaria and about five suspected dengue cases everyday. Last month, there were four positive dengue cases reported at the hospital. Relapse of Chikungunya is yet another illness that has soared with the onset of monsoon. "We see 20-30 cases of chikungunya everyday. However, most of the viral fever cases which we get are day care cases," said Dr Shivprasad from the hospital.

M S Ramaiah Memorial Hospital has recorded a 15 per cent increase in the number of fever admissions in ICU in the last 10 days. With the exception of one malaria case, the rest are all patients with suspected viral fever. This could include dengue, dengue like fever or any other infection.  The hospital's director Dr Naresh Shetty said 5-10 per cent of the cases fall in the non-specific viral syndrome category.

He cautioned that people should avoid self medication if the fever persists for two or three days and visit a doctor. Also, if the area where the person stays is prone to vector borne diseases or if many people in the area have fallen sick, it is a good idea to go to a physician soon.