Temperatures rise, so does gastroenteritis cases

Cases of gastroenteritis cases are increasing in Bengaluru following a steady rise in temperature.

From severe cases of inpatient admissions to several patients getting treated on an outpatient basis, Bengaluru’s hospitals are reporting cases of varying severity of gastroenteritis - a condition characterised by severe stomach pain, diarrhea and vomiting

Take for example the Epidemic Diseases Hospital, which is seeing five in-patient admissions each day of acute gastroenteritis cases.

“We are seeing these cases form areas around DJ Halli, Byappanahalli and slums near HAL. They come to us having consumed bad water. They also have poor hygiene that leads to the infection,” said Ansar Ahmed, medical superintendent, Epidemic Diseases Hospital.

Besides the severe cases, the hospital has also seen a spurt in out-patient cases.

According to doctors, rising temperatures create a conducive environment for microorganisms to grow.

Dr Govindaiah Yatheesh, chief of medical services, Apollo Hospitals, said it is essential to consume only purified water. “Even if one is to consume outside food, it has to be hygienic,” he added. Apart from gastroenteritis, water-borne diseases such as typhoid and cholera also see a spike during the season. “Temperature less than 23 degrees is not conducive for multiplication of organisms. As the mercury levels rise, it helps them. Also, with more dust in the air, allergic reactions are also on the rise. We are also seeing an increase in chickenpox cases,” he said.