Chennai Hospitals Face Surge As Flu; Respiratory Infections And Dengue Cases Rise

Private hospitals across Chennai are witnessing a sharp rise in patients with respiratory infections, influenza and dengue.

The surge has crowded outpatient departments, filled hospital wards and extended admission waits ahead of the monsoon.

In some hospitals, emergency patients are waiting up to 12 hours for beds. Patients shifted from intensive care units to general wards are facing similar delays due to limited room availability.

Doctors said most infections remain mild. Patients usually recover with medication, rest and adequate hydration.

However, elderly people and those with co-morbidities face higher risks. Fatalities remain uncommon but can occur among vulnerable patients.

Patients are reporting high fever, sore throat, cold, persistent cough, severe body and leg pain, chest discomfort, fatigue and poor appetite.

Children and adolescents are experiencing prolonged fever and extreme exhaustion. A few have developed fever-induced confusion or delirium.

Some patients require nebulisation or intravenous fluids, increasing hospital admissions.

Doctors urged people with breathing difficulties, persistent fever or dehydration symptoms to seek medical care early.

Dr R Rajammal, an infectious diseases expert at a private Chennai hospital, said ward admissions had risen significantly. She said emergency patients were waiting up to 12 hours for rooms or beds, while ICU transfers faced similar delays. Outpatient waiting times had increased considerably.

Viruses including respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, rhinovirus and parainfluenza account for much of the caseload. Influenza, including H1N1, and dengue are frequently diagnosed.

Doctors advised residents to avoid self-medication, maintain hand hygiene and limit close contact with infected people. They recommended masks in crowded places for those with respiratory symptoms.

With the monsoon approaching, stagnant water could increase mosquito breeding and dengue transmission. Doctors called for stronger mosquito control and public awareness.

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