Mangaluru: Viral fever cases are witnessing a sharp increase across Mangaluru‘s urban and rural areas following continuous heavy rainfall over the past two days, prompting health authorities to intensify surveillance and urge the public to take preventive measures against seasonal illnesses.
A sudden change in weather conditions has created an environment conducive to the spread of viral infections. As a result, government hospitals, Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and private healthcare facilities across the district have reported a noticeable rise in the number of patients seeking treatment for fever and respiratory illnesses.
Health officials have advised residents not to ignore symptoms or resort to self-medication, warning that timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and reduce the spread of communicable diseases.
Hospitals report increase in fever cases
Medical professionals across Mangaluru have observed an increase in patients presenting with symptoms commonly associated with viral fever. These include fever, cold, cough, sore throat, body pain and persistent coughing.
According to health authorities, urban areas are witnessing a higher number of communicable disease cases due to the constant movement of people for work, education and other daily activities, increasing the possibility of person-to-person transmission.
In response, the Health Department has directed all Primary Health Centres to closely monitor fever cases and report any unusual trends that may require immediate intervention.
HFMD detected in Dakshina Kannada
Health authorities have also confirmed the presence of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in Dakshina Kannada district.
HFMD is a contagious viral illness that primarily affects young children and spreads through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. Officials have stressed the importance of maintaining hygiene and identifying symptoms early to prevent further transmission.
The detection of HFMD has prompted the department to enhance awareness campaigns, especially among parents, schools and childcare centres.
Door-to-door fever surveillance intensified
To identify fever cases at an early stage and strengthen disease surveillance, the Health Department has launched extensive door-to-door surveys across Dakshina Kannada.
The exercise covers all 12 Urban Primary Health Centres functioning under the Mangaluru City Corporation, in addition to 66 Primary Health Centres spread across the district.
ASHA workers, malaria control staff, health inspectors and Multi-Purpose Workers (MPWs) are visiting households to identify individuals with fever or related symptoms. Those found unwell are being advised to undergo medical examination and laboratory testing wherever necessary.
Officials said the survey is aimed at ensuring early detection of communicable diseases and preventing further spread through timely intervention.
Dengue risk remains a concern
Health authorities have cautioned that intermittent rainfall and water stagnation could trigger a rise in mosquito-borne diseases, particularly dengue.
Residents have been urged to eliminate stagnant water around their homes, workplaces and public spaces to prevent mosquito breeding.
According to the Health Department, Dakshina Kannada has so far recorded 34 dengue cases and 11 malaria cases this year.
Officials said sustained rainfall could create favourable breeding conditions for mosquitoes, making community participation in source reduction measures critical.
Health department issues precautionary advisory
The Health Department has issued a series of preventive guidelines to minimise the spread of viral fever and other seasonal infections.
Residents have been advised to avoid close contact with people suffering from fever or cold and refrain from sharing handkerchiefs, towels or other personal items with infected individuals.
People should cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or handkerchief while coughing or sneezing and wash their hands frequently with soap and water.
The department has also recommended drinking only boiled and cooled water, consuming nutritious food, getting adequate rest and wearing face masks in crowded places whenever necessary.
Those experiencing fever or related symptoms have been urged to seek medical attention without delay and avoid self-medication.
Public urged not to ignore symptoms
Health officials have emphasised that the current weather conditions are highly favourable for the spread of viral fever and other seasonal diseases.
They have appealed to the public not to treat fever as a minor illness or rely on over-the-counter medicines without medical advice. Early consultation with healthcare professionals, they said, can help prevent complications while reducing the transmission of infectious diseases within the community.
With the monsoon continuing across the district, the Health Department has urged residents to remain vigilant, maintain personal hygiene and cooperate with surveillance teams to ensure effective monitoring and control of seasonal illnesses.