Hyderabad: The sudden dip in temperatures earlier this week has led to more than 100 cases of viral fever, cough and cold, in the last two days in the city. The cold wind has led to ear problems among the elderly and children as they were not prepared for it. Both private and government hospitals have been getting a continuous stream of patients complaining of cold, sore throat and also respiratory disorders.
Dr Preeti Sharma, consultant paediatrician, said, “Simple fevers can be treated at home with a paracetamol, rest and good intake of liquids. If the flu symptoms become more severe with high fever and body pains it is important not to use cough syrup and antibiotics without consulting a doctor.”
Often those who had experienced viral fever during the onset of winter use the same prescription thinking it is the same virus. The sudden change of temperature and wind movement has led to symptoms which are very similar, but the treatment may not be the same, doctors said.
Senior general physician Dr G. Narender said, “The dip has been sudden and it takes time for the body to adjust. Those who had underlying respiratory problems have seen secondary diseases like bronchiolitis, allergic cough and respiratory problems. This is due to the poor air quality combined with moisture in the air.”
