Whitefield and Bengaluru hospitals report 30 percent spike in seasonal viral cases

Hospitals and clinics in Whitefield and across Bengaluru have recorded a 20 to 30 percent surge in outpatient cases presenting with seasonal viral infections and respiratory illnesses over the past few weeks.

Healthcare professionals attribute the rise to fluctuating monsoon weather, intermittent rains, and increased humidity. The increase is being observed among both adults and children, with most cases presenting symptoms such as fever, cough, cold, sore throat, fatigue, and body aches.

Dr Basavaraj S Kumbar, Consultant of Internal Medicine at Aster Whitefield Hospital, advised residents to avoid self-medicating with antibiotics, noting that most seasonal viral infections do not require them. He emphasized the importance of maintaining hand hygiene, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and seeking timely medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist beyond 24 to 48 hours.

Dr Kumbar noted that children are particularly susceptible due to close contact in schools and developing immunity. Working adults are frequently exposed through travel, workplaces, and crowded public spaces, while senior citizens and individuals with underlying health conditions remain at a higher risk of developing complications.

Dr G Nasiruddin, Consultant of Internal Medicine at Fortis Hospital on Cunningham Road, confirmed the trend, stating that outpatient departments have seen approximately a 20 to 30 percent increase in patients presenting with viral illnesses compared to the previous month. He noted that most cases are mild to moderate and are being managed on an outpatient basis.

According to Dr Nasiruddin, the current surge is likely due to a combination of factors, including frequent weather changes, intermittent rains, increased humidity, and the circulation of respiratory viruses. Increased travel, crowded indoor environments, and reduced adherence to preventive measures such as hand hygiene and mask use have also contributed to the rise in infections.

While many of these illnesses are seasonal viral infections, doctors warned that clinicians must remain vigilant for other monsoon-related infections, such as influenza, dengue, and malaria, which can present with similar symptoms.