OPDs Witness Surge as Covid Cases Rise in India; Fever, Diarrhoea, Hoarseness Among Common Symptoms

OPDs Witness Surge as Covid Cases Rise in India: Coronavirus cases are rising again in India and states are speeding-up prevention measures including increased Covid testing and hospital bed preparations. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said before, the variants currently circulating in the country are associated with mild symptoms. The Omicron subvariants identified so far are LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1.

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Covid spike aligns with flu symptoms

The rise of the monsoon-related respiratory illness, clinical distinction of Covid from the flu has become essential. Dr Dhiraj Bhattad, consultant, internal medicine at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, told Hindustan Times, “Both flu and Covid-19 can cause fever, sore throat, cough, cold, headache, body ache and fatigue. But loss of taste and smell is a distinct sign of Covid.” Health officials have ramped-up surveillance and testing for Covid-19 with rising influenza-like illness (ILI) or severe acute respiratory infections (SARI), particularly in urban geographical clusters. Doctors continue to advise health education to the public, cautioning that clinically distinguishing the flu from Covid is difficult.

News18, reported, low-grade fever, dry/irritated cough, hoarse voice, nasal congestion/mild runny nose, are those of Covid being reported in hospitals. In addition, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, mild GI symptoms such as nausea or diarrhoea, and throat discomfort are also prescribed.

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States step up preventative measures

With Covid cases increasing, some states such as Mumbai and Haryana have increased Covid prevention measures. Municipal Commissioner of Navi Mumbai, Kailas Shinde, said, “We are ensuring adequate stock of essential medicines, PPE kits, surgical supplies, oxygen, and oxygen beds.”

Authorities in Haryana have directed hospitals to set up designated flu corners and have sufficient isolation beds, oxygen, PPE kits, N95 masks, antibiotics, and test kits. The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) of Chandigarh has opened special wards for Covid-19 patients, including different types of ICU beds and high dependency wards.

Doctors advise protecting the vulnerable

Dr Sanjay Jain, dean research, PGIMER, said, “Most new variant cases are mild, but vigilance is essential, especially to protect the vulnerable. Dr. Jain asked people to wear a mask while visiting crowded places, especially hospitals. In case of fever, cough, breathing issues, runny nose, or loose motions, don’t delay in seeing a doctor. Avoid taking antibiotics or steroids without a doctor’s advice. Extra care is advised for vulnerable population such as the elderly, those with other health problems, and those with weak immunity should stay away from crowds and maintain proper hand hygiene.

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