PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Doctors in Dehradun have attributed the recent surge in cold, cough and other infections among residents to the low temperature, cold wave and poor Air Quality Index (AQI). Considered healthful in the past, the winter season has now become a concern due to the dry cold and unhealthy AQI. Regarding this, doctors pointed out that the combination of weather conditions and poor air quality has led to an increase in cases of fever, allergies and other health issues, they added.
The current weather conditions and air quality index (AQI) are impacting individuals of all ages. A pediatrician and medical superintendent at the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Raipur Dr PS Rawat stated that they are currently observing 250 outpatient department (OPD) visits each day at the hospital, with 15 to 20 per cent of those being an increase in cases of cold, cough, fever, allergies and other ailments among children. These rising cases can be attributed to a variety of factors, including low temperatures, poor air quality and overcrowding. Rawat said that lower temperatures increase the survival rate of infections. Additionally, the current deteriorating air quality is particularly affecting children and the elderly. To mitigate these issues, parents are advised to ensure their children consume a balanced diet rich in green vegetables and maintain proper hygiene. If children have a runny nose, they should wear masks to prevent spreading infections to others, Rawat emphasised.
He further emphasised that the current situation is susceptible to infections for all age groups, but elderly individuals and children are more vulnerable due to their lower immunity.
“In comparison to previous winter seasons, there has been a noticeable increase in cases of cough, cold and fever among residents this year in the outpatient department (OPD). The rise in these cases can be attributed to the cold temperatures combined with poor air quality. Additionally, I have also encountered residents at the OPD facing breathing difficulties due to the low air quality,” stated a senior physician at Combined Medical Institute (CMI) Hospital Dr Anshika Jain.
She also stressed the importance of taking precautions to prevent these ailments, which include drinking plenty of water, limiting outdoor activities, wearing layered clothing, practicing good hygiene, and staying active with indoor workouts.
