BANGALORE: The city weather seems to seems to be a favourable factor for the survival of the virus, as low temperature facilitates the growth of any kind of virus, say medical experts.
“When the temperature is low, the moisture in the atmosphere takes more time to dry up, compared to places having higher temperature. There are chances for the infection to spread more in places where the temperature is low. People touch surfaces having the virus unconsciously and become susceptible to the flu,” said Dr Sashidhar Buggi, director of the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases (RGICD).
Compared to other cities like Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata, temperature in Bangalore is low. Taking the average temperature for August, Delhi had a maximum of 33 degree Celsius and a minimum of 26 degree Celsius. Chennai recorded 37 degree Celsius and 27 degree Celsius, respectively. Comparatively, Bangalore had a lower temperature with a maximum of 29 and a minimum of 19 degree Celsius, providing a better chance for the spread of the infection.
“People should have nutritious food to boost immune system. Hygiene is very important.
One should make sure that after exposure of the hands to different surfaces, they should be washed with soap,” Buggi said.
Dr Poornima Parthasarathy, consultant of internal medicine, Manipal Hospital, too voiced a similar opinion. “Besides low temperature, the virus seems to survive more during monsoon, as the atmosphere is moist for a longer period. This is not just in the case of swine flu, but any other flu or communicable disease,” she said.
Suggesting precautionary measures, she said, “A well-ventilated room and keeping oneself and one’s surroundings hygienic is required. Avoiding overcrowded places and increasing the intake of water and liquids can be helpful.”