Kashish Gupta
Friday, August 19, 2005 (New Delhi):
The monsoon does have some undesirable effects.
Wards in various hospitals in the Capital are overflowing with patients suffering from with viral infections.
Doctors say this is not unusual during the monsoons. Every year during this period, there is a surge in viral diseases such as dengue, hepatitis A and conjunctivitis.
Significant rise

However, this year there has been a significant increase in viral hepatitis cases. Around 40 cases were reported this month and three cases were admitted on Thursday alone.
“The number of viral hepatitis patients this year are on the higher side – other than that there are cases of dengue and viral fever,” said Dr D K Seth, Head of Unit, Bara Hindu Rao.
Over 150 cases of viral infections are being reported daily at the Bara Hindu Rao Hospital.
While all are being treated based on clinical symptoms, doctors say at least 10 per cent of these need to be admitted for further investigations to establish the actual cause.
However, they have to be turned away as there aren’t enough beds
Lack of awareness
Viral cases are reported all year round, but excessive humidity and rains around this time of the year provide a breeding ground for these viruses.
However, a lack of awareness among the general public does not help the situation.
“I had high fever and a pain in my liver and my head felt heavy. This went on for a month. No, I don’t know the reason for my illness,” said a patient.
Doctors say viral diseases spread quickly in overcrowded areas and in closed spaces like buses and trains. But simple precautions can help prevent the disease from infecting large populations.
“Do not allow mosquitoes to breed, throw away stale water. And drinking water must always be safe and clean,” added Dr Seth.
Also, if symptoms such as high fever, sore throat and body ache persist, its important to consult a doctor.