HYDERABAD: Even as Hyderabad has largely remained free of heavy rainfall in recent weeks, local clinics and hospitals are reporting a surge in fever cases, with patients complaining of high-grade fever, severe body aches, weakness and flu-like symptoms.
Doctors said the current wave is unusual, with several patients recording temperatures of 104°F to 105°F. However, only a small proportion of those tested are turning out positive for dengue, indicating that other viral infections could be driving the surge.
Physicians said local clinics are seeing 25-30 fever patients a day, significantly higher than usual. Common complaints include persistent fever, severe body and joint pains, headaches, fatigue and weakness lasting several days.
“Over the last two to three weeks, we have seen a noticeable increase in fever cases. What is striking is the intensity of the fever. Several patients are reporting temperatures touching 104°F and even 105°F. Naturally, people fear dengue, but the majority of test results are coming back negative,” said Hyderabad-based general physician Dr Keshwani.
Doctors said dengue positivity remained relatively low despite the rise in fever cases. “Out of dozens of fever patients being tested, only one or two are turning out to be dengue positive. Roughly, we are seeing one positive dengue case in every 40 to 50 tests,” Dr Keshwani said, adding that the pattern suggested a viral fever was circulating in the community.
Many patients initially suspect dengue because of the high fever and body pains, but blood tests often show normal platelet counts and negative dengue markers, doctors said.
Clinics in several parts of the city have also reported entire families falling ill, with infections spreading among household members. Doctors said seasonal viral infections, fluctuating weather, travel and crowded public spaces could be contributing to the trend.
Fewer cases this year
However, Directorof Public Health and Family Welfare B Ravinder Naik said the overall fever trend this year was lower than last year, according to Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) data. He said the department was conducting continuous fever surveys, surveillance, testing and treatment, along with coordination meetings with districts and line departments.
“The trend this year, compared to last year, has been lesser. Fever surveys, surveillance, testing and treatment are being continuously taken up. Sanitation and cleanliness activities have also been carried out, while comparatively less rain during the season could be another factor,” Ravinder Naik said.
Doctors also cautioned against self-medication and advised people not to ignore persistent fever, particularly when temperatures exceed 103°F.
“The current trend indicates that most cases are viral and self-limiting, but high fever should never be taken lightly. Early evaluation helps rule out dengue, typhoid and other infections and ensures timely treatment,” Dr Keshwani said.
