Chennai: There has been a sharp increase in fever cases across the state, including in Chennai, this month with most people testing positive for influenza. While most people recover from symptoms in three days, some are left with body aches, fatigue, and a persistent cough for up to a month.
Doctors, including paediatricians, suspect an outbreak of influenza A. They say that most people recover within three to four days with medicines and rest. State public health laboratory confirmed that nearly 75% of samples from flu-like illnesses tested positive for influenza — primarily influenza A, followed by influenza B. “Dengue cases showed a smaller spike than expected, and other viral infections such as adenovirus and respiratory syncytial virus remain low,” said Raju Sivadoss, who heads state public health laboratory at directorate of public health.
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness that targets the nose, throat and lungs, causing a range of symptoms that can vary in severity. “This is the season for such infections. In most houses, children bring infections from school or coaching centres. We prescribe paracetamol for fever. Since cough syrups offer little relief in children, we ask parents to give them honey,” said senior paediatrician Dr S Balasubramanian.
Among adults, most manage with over-the-counter medication for relieving symptoms, said infectious diseases expert Dr Subramanian Swaminathan. “Some people with severe symptoms or those with chronic conditions require oseltamivir. A small number of people will require hospitalisation for rehydration through IV fluids or nebulisation,” he said. However, the elderly with comorbidities end up with life-threatening complications in the intensive care unit. “They become very ill. This is why we advise them to take preventive shots,” he added.
While influenza A is the most common type of flu virus, some patients also tested positive for influenza B, which typically causes milder illness compared to influenza A.
Public health director Dr T S Selvavinayagam said the state advises people, particularly pregnant women and the elderly with comorbidities, to avoid closed crowded spaces or wear masks. “Flu virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. When these droplets are inhaled or land on surfaces that are then touched by others, it can cause infection. A mask can reduce chances of infection,” he said.
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