Hyderabad sees surge in viral fevers due to Rotavirus & Norovirus: Kamineni Hospital doctor
Hyderabad: A significant increase in viral fever cases has been reported in Hyderabad over the past few weeks, with both adults and children falling ill. According to Dr. Srikrishna Raghavendra, Consultant General Physician at Kamineni Hospital, rotavirus and norovirus are the primary causative agents behind the surge.
Dr. Srikrishna Raghavendra said that Kamineni Hospital has treated nearly 300 patients suffering from viral fevers in the past two to three weeks. Symptoms commonly reported include high fever, body aches, and severe limb pain. Approximately 150 patients were admitted as inpatients, while the remainder were treated as outpatients.
“The primary culprits behind these fevers are Rotavirus and Norovirus,” Dr. Srikrishna Raghavendra said. “It is crucial for individuals to adhere to strict personal hygiene practices to protect themselves from these infections. This includes avoiding outside food, preferring home-cooked meals, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and ensuring hands are washed with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before eating.”
Dr. Srikrishna advised that anyone suspecting a viral infection should stay home and avoid preparing food for others. Staying hydrated is important to manage symptoms, and maintaining cleanliness in the home with disinfectants can help reduce the spread of the virus. Additionally, wearing masks in crowded places and considering seasonal vaccinations can offer some protection.
He further said that proper medical consultation is more important than self-medicating. Dr. Srikrishna said, “It is essential to consult a doctor who can conduct appropriate tests to identify the type of fever and prescribe the correct treatment. Each type of fever requires specific treatment, and not all cases benefit from antibiotics like doxycycline. Treatment often includes antipyretics for fever and medications to manage vomiting or diarrhea.”
Dr. Raghavendra also warned about the rapid spread of these fevers. “If one family member is infected, the virus can easily spread to others in the household and beyond. The virus can transmit to ten to fifteen people before being detected, making personal hygiene and precautionary measures critical. With the increasing number of adult cases over the past few years, it is essential to avoid consuming outside food and to be vigilant about potential sources of contamination, such as stagnant water.”
As the rainy season continues, Dr. Srikrishna urged everyone to take preventive measures seriously to curb the spread of viral infections.
