Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada district is witnessing a rise in influenza, or seasonal flu, cases amid changing weather conditions marked by intermittent rain, sudden cloud cover and increased humidity.
While more than 4,000 H1N1 cases have been reported across Karnataka and Udupi district has recorded more than 300 cases, the situation in Dakshina Kannada remains relatively under control, with 87 cases reported so far.
Mangaluru city has recorded the highest number of cases in the district at 60, followed by Bantwal taluk with 14 cases, Puttur with seven, Beltangady with five and Sullia with one case.
Mangaluru records highest number of cases
Health officials are closely monitoring the influenza situation in Dakshina Kannada as weather conditions continue to fluctuate.
Of the 87 cases reported in the district, Mangaluru city accounts for the largest share with 60 cases. Bantwal has reported 14 cases, while seven cases have been recorded in Puttur, five in Beltangady and one in Sullia.
Officials have said the situation is presently under control but have advised people to take precautionary measures, particularly those belonging to vulnerable groups.
The changing weather, including intermittent rainfall, sudden cloud cover and humid conditions, has contributed to concerns over the spread of seasonal respiratory infections.
Children advised to take extra precautions
Children are among those more susceptible to influenza as their immunity may be relatively lower. Health officials have advised parents to pay close attention to symptoms such as persistent fever and chills.
If a child develops such symptoms, parents should consult a doctor instead of ignoring them or resorting to self-medication.
Children suffering from fever should not be sent to school until the fever subsides. This will help in their recovery and also reduce the possibility of the infection spreading to other students.
The Health Department has also sent letters to Education Department officials and hostel authorities, asking them to maintain proper monitoring of students in schools and colleges.
Health department strengthens surveillance
Special surveillance is being maintained across Dakshina Kannada for Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases.
Health workers and ASHA workers are visiting households as part of the surveillance activities. When suspected ILI or SARI cases are identified during these visits, the details are shared with the concerned local Primary Health Centre.
The patients are subsequently contacted and provided with health awareness, guidance and advice on appropriate medical care.
The surveillance mechanism is intended to ensure that suspected cases are identified early and that people receive timely medical attention.
Precautions advised to prevent infection
Health officials have advised residents to follow basic precautions to reduce the spread of influenza.
People should cover their nose and mouth with a handkerchief while coughing or sneezing. Regular handwashing with soap and water has also been recommended.
Residents have been advised to drink sufficient water and avoid frequently touching their eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
People experiencing symptoms should also avoid handshakes and stay away from crowded places as far as possible. Used handkerchiefs and napkins should not be reused, as this could contribute to the spread of infection.
Officials have also advised people not to ignore prolonged fever.
If fever does not subside even after two or three days, the person should undergo a medical examination. Health authorities have specifically advised against self-medication and urged people to seek medical advice when symptoms persist.
Vulnerable groups need greater care
Children, pregnant women, new mothers and senior citizens have been advised to take extra precautions and remain under close observation.
These groups should seek medical advice promptly if they develop persistent fever, chills or other symptoms associated with influenza.
Families should also monitor vulnerable members closely, particularly during periods of changing weather and increased seasonal infections.
Maintaining good hand hygiene, covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing and avoiding unnecessary exposure to crowded places can help reduce the risk of transmission.
Flu commonly rises twice a year
Seasonal influenza, commonly known as flu, is an infectious disease caused by influenza viruses.
According to health officials, seasonal flu generally sees an increase twice a year, with one period occurring between January and March and another between July and September.
The present increase in cases in Dakshina Kannada comes during the latter period, when changing weather conditions can contribute to the spread of respiratory infections.
Health authorities are therefore continuing surveillance while encouraging the public to follow basic preventive measures.
Medicines available, says health officer
Dr H R Thimmaiah, Dakshina Kannada district health officer, said people should take necessary precautions while assuring that the Health Department was maintaining surveillance.
“People should take precautionary measures. The Health Department is also maintaining surveillance, and sufficient stocks of medicines are available,” he said.
With 87 cases reported in Dakshina Kannada so far, health authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation. The relatively lower number of cases compared to the state and neighbouring Udupi district provides some reassurance, but continued surveillance and public cooperation remain important to prevent further spread.
Residents, particularly those in vulnerable groups, have been advised to remain alert, seek medical attention when symptoms persist and avoid spreading infection by staying away from schools, workplaces and crowded places while experiencing flu symptoms.