The number of swine flu cases is rising across the country, spreading from the capital Delhi to Karnataka. Emergency departments in hospitals are seeing an influx of patients with symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and fever; some of them also experience difficulty breathing and are hospitalized. Medical professionals note that the increase in incidence is linked to changing weather conditions and decreased immunity.
This virus belongs to the influenza A type. For most patients, symptoms manifest as a typical cough, runny nose, and elevated temperature. Patients are divided into three categories depending on the severity of their symptoms. This was explained by Dr. Satish Kaul from the Internal Medicine department at Fortis Hospital in Gurugram.
Dr. Satish explains that swine flu patients are divided into categories A, B, and C. Category A includes people with mild symptoms, such as cough, runny nose, muscle aches, and a low-grade fever. Most such patients recover within three to five days with standard treatment and rest, and they typically do not require testing or antiviral medications.
If a patient has a high fever, is pregnant, or suffers from heart disease or diabetes, the doctor may prescribe Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) after consultation. It is not necessary to wait for test results for this, and taking the medication can alleviate the condition. During this period, it is important to avoid crowded places, maintain hand hygiene when eating, and avoid contact with infected individuals. Dr. Satish emphasizes that starting treatment promptly in this category helps prevent symptom worsening.
Dr. Satish warns that signs such as high fever combined with chest pain, breathing difficulties, or coughing up blood may indicate a serious condition. Patients with such symptoms should be immediately taken to the emergency department and started on antiviral treatment as prescribed by a doctor. The good news is that less than 5% of patients reach critical condition, but caution remains necessary. If cold symptoms worsen or breathing problems appear, one should consult a doctor immediately and begin adequate treatment.