Bengaluru has witnessed an uptick in weather-related illnesses since the beginning of the monsoon season. Health experts from leading hospitals and clinics have reported a surge in water-borne diseases, respiratory infections, and skin conditions, with children under two years and young adults emerging as the most vulnerable.
Doctors at Apollo Clinic noted a nearly 15 per cent rise in outpatient visits over the past few days, with over 40-60 patients visiting daily for ailments commonly associated with the rainy season.
Among the most prevalent conditions are typhoid, gastrointestinal infections like diarrhoea and stomach upset, and fungal skin issues, said Dr Priyadharshini, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Apollo One, Bengaluru.
“Sudden changes in weather, frequent exposure to rain, and contaminated water have contributed to a spike in monsoon-related health issues,” Dr Priyadharshini added. She emphasised the need for maintaining hygiene and consuming clean water to curb the spread of such infections.
Paediatricians across the city have also flagged a sharp rise in cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), particularly affecting infants under two years of age, over the past 10-20 days. According to Dr Santosh Kumar, Senior Consultant & Lead, Paediatrician and Neonatologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Banashankari, 40-60 per cent of RSV-affected infants, most between 2-6 months, required ICU care due to severe symptoms such as excessive coughing, breathlessness, and wheezing.
“Of every 100 children seen in OPDs, nearly 40 are presenting with acute respiratory symptoms linked to RSV,” said Dr Kumar. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through throat swabs, and treatment focuses on supportive care, such as nebulization. There is no routine antiviral treatment available, although monoclonal antibodies are used as preventive options in some cases.
The virus spreads quickly in daycare centres and pre-schools and has an incubation period of around 14 days. However, children over two years tend to exhibit better immunity and typically recover without complications.
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Hospitals are also recording a growing number of RSV, flu, and acute bronchitis cases among adults aged 22-40, according to Dr Basavaraj S Kumbar, Consultant, Internal Medicine at Aster Whitefield Hospital. “Last week alone, we saw about 10-12 such cases. A few senior citizens aged above 60 have also been affected,” he added.
The rise in viral respiratory infections in both paediatric and adult populations is being attributed to increased humidity, water stagnation, and frequent exposure to cold rain, all of which weaken immune defences and make individuals susceptible to infections.
Health professionals have urged residents to wash hands frequently, dry feet and clothes, avoid damp clothing, and wear breathable cotton outfits. They have also advised to boil or filter water before consumption and to carry personal water bottles when going out. The doctors have also urged citizens to wear waterproof shoes or gum boots to prevent infections due to contact with contaminated water.