Viral fever takes a serious turn, pneumonia cases rise: Doctors explain reasons, safety tips

Viral fever is increasingly turning serious in Kerala, as doctors report more cases of severe respiratory infections and pneumonia, particularly among the elderly. Health experts have cautioned that influenza viruses, including H1N1, can lead to serious complications in vulnerable groups. 

Genetic changes in viruses
In previous years, influenza was more common during the monsoon. Genetic changes in viruses could be one reason for their spread even when there is little or no rain, according to Dr K S Praveen of Nemom Taluk Hospital. Even minor genetic variations can help viruses develop resistance to medicines, he said.

Who are most vulnerable?
Viral infections, including H1N1, are increasingly causing severe pneumonia among people aged above 60, said Dr B Padmakumar, former principal of Alappuzha Medical College. The number of patients being hospitalised for pneumonia is also rising. “Those with diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and other underlying conditions are particularly vulnerable, and the infection can turn fatal in some cases,” he said, adding that wearing a mask could help reduce the risk of infection.

Also testing positive for COVID
Several respiratory illnesses that were not commonly identified earlier are now being linked to viral infections such as H1N1, said Dr P S Shahjahan, head of the department of pulmonary medicine at Parippally Medical College in Kollam. “Pneumonia resulting from these infections is also increasing,” he said. A significant number of people suffering from viral fever are also testing positive for Covid, said Dr P V Benny, chairman of the Indian Medical Association’s Food and Safety Committee.

EBV infections turning severe
Doctors have also observed that Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infections, which earlier often passed off like ordinary fever, are becoming severe in some patients. EBV is a highly contagious, double-stranded virus that comes under the category of 'herpesvirus.' According to the Centres for Disease Control, EBV spreads through bodily fluids like saliva, mainly through utensils, drinks and kissing. 

Fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck and severe fatigue are among its common symptoms. In some cases, the infection can also affect the liver. While EBV generally does not cause serious complications in healthy people, it can be more severe in children and the elderly.

Vaccine available, but will govt provide it free?
Though vaccines against influenza are available, they are not being provided at government hospitals. Demand is growing for the government to provide them free of cost, at least to vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, senior citizens and people with serious underlying conditions.

A vaccine is also available to protect senior citizens against pneumonia. A single dose for those aged above 60 can protect for up to five years. There is also a demand for the government to make the vaccine available free of cost through the Department of Elderly Welfare.