Health officials sound caution as soaring temperature triggers fresh wave of fever cases in Ernakulam

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Health officials have sounded caution and warned against self-medication in the wake of a renewed spate of fever cases, including influenza, in the district, triggered by soaring temperatures over the past few weeks.

According to the medical community, the flu season is not yet over, while intense heat followed by heavy rain and the festive season may have created conditions conducive to the spread of diseases.

The district continues to report the highest number of influenza cases in the State, while dengue and leptospirosis cases also persist. Medical professionals have urged people to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

A total of 533 influenza cases were reported from Ernakulam till September 11, while the State recorded around 1,222 cases during the month. The district also reported 28 confirmed and four suspected cases of leptospirosis, along with 307 suspected and 128 confirmed dengue cases. Three deaths due to leptospirosis have also been reported in the district.

Rajany Jose, Professor of community medicine and coordinator of the Prevention of Epidemic and Infectious Diseases (PEID) cell at the Government Medical Hospital, Ernakulam, stressed the need for caution, especially among young children and the elderly, given the continued spread of viruses. “With viruses still in circulation, much caution is required. The rapidly fluctuating temperature is not helping either. The general expectation that cases would decline once the rain stopped has been belied,” said Dr. Rajany.

Rajeev Jayadevan, convenor of research cell, IMA, Kerala State, emphasised that infection rates would not drop simply because the rain is over. “The changing climate and the recent festive season may have exacerbated the spread of infectious diseases, especially respiratory viruses. Hot weather is going to affect the very young and the elderly the most, and they must be kept hydrated,” he said.

The changing climate may have contributed to increased viral activity, noted Arun N.M., an internal medicine consultant. He urged those with infections to avoid public places. “Following basic hygiene measures, such as wearing a mask when infected and avoiding crowded places, can help prevent the spread of diseases,” he said.

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