Mosquito-borne and seasonal viral diseases are increasing in Ahmedabad amid changing weather conditions, with Asarwa Civil Hospital and Sola Civil Hospital witnessing a significant rise in patients.
Health authorities have become more alert as dengue cases have increased over the past two months, along with other seasonal infections.
Asarwa Civil Hospital sees threefold rise in dengue cases
According to the Superintendent of Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, 94 dengue cases were reported in August, while the number has increased to 315 so far in September. More than 300 patients have already received treatment for dengue at the hospital this month.
The hospital has also reported a heavy patient load. In the past week alone, more than 29,000 people visited the Civil Hospital’s OPD, while over 2,400 patients were admitted for treatment.
Doctors said common dengue symptoms include high fever, weakness and fever that does not subside despite medication. Citizens have been advised to consult a doctor and undergo laboratory testing instead of self-medicating if such symptoms appear.
Sola Civil Hospital records nearly 16,000 OPD visits in a week
Sola Civil Hospital has also witnessed a sharp increase in patients amid the changing weather. According to the hospital’s ARMO, 15,986 patients visited the OPD in just one week.
Doctors have reported an increase in cases of fever, cold and cough, along with mosquito-borne diseases.
The hospital has recorded 169 dengue cases and 13 malaria cases. In addition, four typhoid cases, two swine flu cases and one chikungunya case have been reported.
Children also affected by seasonal infections
The changing weather has also affected children. Around 100 to 150 children are visiting the paediatric department every day for treatment of seasonal illnesses.
Doctors at both hospitals have advised residents to prevent water from stagnating in and around their homes, use mosquito nets and seek medical attention at the nearest government or health centre if symptoms develop.