Indore (Madhya Pradesh): The cold season has led to a sharp increase in viral infections, with government and private hospital OPDs seeing a 15% rise in patients. At MY Hospital's medicine department, daily patient numbers have surged from an average of 200 to 300-400.
Common ailments include colds, coughs, sore throats, ear swelling, and throat infections, affecting individuals across all age groups. Experts attribute the rise in infections to dropping temperatures, increased humidity, and dietary changes, as many people consume more fried and junk food during winter.
Dr Sanjay Dubey, MD Medicine, emphasised the importance of boosting immunity with nutritious homemade meals. “Humidity in the air during winter can cause nasal swelling and lead to throat or ear infections. Patients with swelling, burning, and pain are frequently reporting to hospitals, often due to viral or bacterial infections,” Dr Dubey noted.
Prevention
* Gargle with warm water regularly
* Include vitamin C-rich foods in your diet
* Drink lukewarm water to stay hydrated
* Avoid consuming refrigerated cold items
Fever cases peak in September
According to Health Department data, over 3,000 fever patients have been reported monthly in 2024 in Indore, India's cleanest city. September saw the highest spike, with 5,273 cases recorded. As infections rise, health experts urge citizens to take precautions to stay healthy during the winter season.
Month Number of fever patients
January 3609
February 4240
March 3754
April 3033
May 3364
June 3341
July 3962
August 4346
September 5273
October 4292
November 3246
