Bengaluru’s private hospitals are nearing full capacity due to an influx of patients, driven by a surge in dengue cases and other seasonal illnesses common during the monsoon. Dr. Carolin Elizabeth George, head of community health at a private hospital, noted that the increase in patient admissions is due not only to dengue but also to the flu season and a rise in elective surgeries. She reported that their hospital has been operating at 90% to 95% bed occupancy for several months, reaching 100% capacity on certain days last week, forcing them to turn away some patients.
Dr. Shailesh Shetty, an emergency medicine consultant, described the current situation as an “annual affair” from June to September, impacting bed availability across hospitals. “We prioritize admissions based on guidelines from the National Vector Borne Disease Programme,” he said, emphasizing the importance of triaging patients carefully to ensure appropriate care for all.
Hospitals are advising doctors to prioritize emergency cases and suggest outpatient management for those who can be treated at home. Key government hospitals in Bengaluru have been directed to reserve a specific number of beds for dengue patients.
Regarding dengue management, doctors emphasize screening every fever patient but caution against unnecessary platelet transfusions. Dr. Satyanarayana Mysore, Pulmonology HoD and lung transplant physician, highlighted the importance of hydration and monitoring fluid accumulation.
Dr. Rajashekar YL, Vice-President of the Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes Association (PHANA), noted an uptick in morbidity among physically fit young adults but described the situation as manageable due to the quick turnover rate in dengue cases. He mentioned that they will discuss expanding bed facilities with the health department if the situation worsens.