Flu Cases Surge Across: Kolkata is currently grappling with a significant surge in flu cases, with doctors across the city reporting a sharp rise in influenza-like illnesses. What’s particularly concerning is that entire households—spanning from children to the elderly—are falling ill together, raising red flags among public health experts.
Healthcare professionals across prominent hospitals have stated that nearly half of all current outpatient consultations are linked to flu-like symptoms. These symptoms range from high fever, persistent dry cough, fatigue, body aches, to gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhoea and vomiting.
Dominant Viral Strains: H3N2, Adenovirus, Influenza B, RSV
Kolkata’s leading laboratories and hospitals have confirmed the circulation of multiple respiratory viruses, including Influenza A (especially H3N2 subtype), Influenza B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and adenovirus. The presence of these viruses has made it difficult for clinicians to pinpoint exact causes without detailed virological testing.
The H3N2 strain has been the most commonly detected, particularly among school-aged children and older adults. Unlike H1N1, which typically causes a more acute illness, H3N2 infections tend to linger, often resulting in extended bouts of coughing and fatigue, even after the fever subsides.
Entire Households Falling Ill Simultaneously
Clinics across South and North Kolkata report that flu is not just affecting individuals—entire families are seeking treatment at once. Children are bringing viruses home from schools, while adults are picking them up from workplaces and public transport.
Dr. Prabhas Prasun Giri, a senior paediatrician in the city, has noted that nearly every child tested recently has shown evidence of influenza infection. Although most of the symptoms in children are mild and manageable at home, the simultaneous illness of parents and grandparents complicates caregiving and leads to more doctor visits.
School Attendance Plummets Amid Viral Spike
The outbreak has had a noticeable impact on school attendance across Kolkata. Many institutions have reported up to 30% absenteeism, especially during examination periods. Parents are caught in a dilemma—balancing their children’s academic priorities with health concerns.
Some schools have started allowing students to appear for exams from home or have postponed assessments for symptomatic children. The situation is forcing educators and health authorities to reconsider how to manage such seasonal outbreaks without disrupting academic schedules.
Weather Conditions Driving the Surge
Experts attribute the current flu surge partly to Kolkata’s unpredictable monsoon conditions. Sudden drops in temperature, high humidity, and alternating dry spells provide an ideal environment for viruses to thrive. These fluctuating weather patterns are also weakening immunity, especially among children and the elderly.
In recent years, such conditions have repeatedly triggered spikes in viral respiratory infections, often leading to prolonged illness cycles that strain both families and healthcare systems.
Decline of COVID-19 Has Allowed Other Viruses to Resurge
With COVID-19 cases currently low in the city, other common respiratory viruses are returning to pre-pandemic transmission levels. During COVID-19’s peak, public masking and lockdowns suppressed the circulation of seasonal viruses. However, as restrictions have eased, viruses like RSV, adenovirus, metapneumovirus, and Influenza A/B have made a strong comeback.
This pattern has been observed globally, including in the U.S. and U.K., where respiratory viruses surged post-lockdown, especially among children and vulnerable groups.
External Source:
CDC – Respiratory Virus Season Outlook
Flu Cases Surge Across Kolkata: Symptoms and Red Flags to Watch For
Doctors in Kolkata are advising residents to look out for the following symptoms:
- Persistent dry or wet cough
- Fever above 101°F for more than 48 hours
- Nasal congestion and sore throat
- Fatigue and muscle aches
- Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhoea or vomiting
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing in elderly patients
In many cases, these symptoms persist for over a week, with coughing continuing even after other signs subside. While most children recover fully, elderly people or those with chronic respiratory illnesses are advised to seek early medical intervention.
Healthcare System Under Pressure
With the rise in viral infections, clinics and hospitals are witnessing long queues, overbooked doctors, and extended waiting times. Many health centres have increased consultation hours, and pharmacies report a surge in sales of paracetamol, cough syrups, and antibiotics (though unnecessary in viral infections).
According to a report by the Indian Medical Association, indiscriminate use of antibiotics during seasonal viral outbreaks can lead to resistance and secondary complications. Physicians are urging people not to self-medicate and to consult healthcare professionals for proper treatment.
Preventive Measures Recommended by Doctors
Medical professionals recommend the following steps to minimize exposure and infection:
- Use face masks in crowded public places.
- Maintain hand hygiene by washing hands with soap regularly.
- Avoid close contact with infected persons.
- Keep children home if they display flu symptoms.
- Isolate symptomatic family members for at least 3–5 days.
- Consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist.
Additionally, seasonal flu vaccines, while not widely adopted in India, are available in private clinics and are recommended especially for vulnerable groups, including the elderly and people with chronic diseases.
External Source:
WHO – Influenza Prevention Guidelines
Call for Awareness and Public Health Support
Despite the rise in flu infections, public health messaging remains limited. Experts are calling on municipal authorities to increase awareness campaigns during seasonal peaks. Many believe the city should consider making flu vaccination more accessible, particularly for high-risk groups.
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) is reportedly monitoring the situation and is likely to issue health advisories if the surge continues. Meanwhile, private hospitals are gearing up to manage the increasing number of viral infection cases by allocating additional paediatric and general OPD slots.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Seasonal Preparedness
The current flu wave in Kolkata underscores the importance of being prepared for seasonal respiratory illnesses, especially as viruses rebound in the post-pandemic era. Though the illness is mostly self-limiting in healthy individuals, early care, isolation, and awareness are crucial to prevent family-wide infections and reduce pressure on healthcare systems.
The public is urged not to panic but to take sensible precautions, seek timely medical attention, and adopt preventive habits that can go a long way in safeguarding families during viral surges.
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