(Image source from: ANI)
The number of coronavirus cases is once again increasing in India, leading state authorities to enhance measures aimed at prevention, including boosting the frequency of Covid testing and ensuring sufficient hospital bed availability. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has previously mentioned that the variants presently circulating across the nation are linked to mild symptoms. The Omicron subvariants identified include LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1. With the advent of monsoon-related respiratory illnesses, the need to differentiate between Covid and influenza has emerged as a critical clinical concern. Dr. Dhiraj Bhattad, a consultant in internal medicine at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, noted that both influenza and Covid-19 can result in symptoms like fever, sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, headaches, body aches, and fatigue. However, a notable indicator of Covid is the loss of taste and smell.
In response to the increase in influenza-like illnesses (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI), health officials have heightened their monitoring and testing efforts for Covid-19, focusing particularly on urban regions. Health practitioners continue to remind the public about the challenges of clinically distinguishing between Covid and influenza.
Reports indicate that hospitals are seeing cases of Covid characterized by low-grade fevers, dry or irritated coughs, hoarse voices, nasal congestion, or a slightly runny nose. In addition, symptoms such as fatigue, muscle pain, headaches, mild gastrointestinal problems including nausea or diarrhea, and throat discomfort are being reported. In light of the rising Covid figures, regions such as Mumbai and Haryana have intensified their precautionary actions. Kailas Shinde, the Municipal Commissioner of Navi Mumbai, stated that the administration is ensuring a sufficient supply of essential medications, PPE kits, surgical materials, and oxygen beds. Moreover, authorities in Haryana have been instructed to establish designated flu areas within hospitals and to maintain enough isolation beds, oxygen resources, PPE kits, N95 masks, antibiotics, and testing materials.
At the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, special facilities for Covid-19 patients have been set up, including intensive care unit (ICU) beds and high-dependency units. Dr. Sanjay Jain, the dean of research at PGIMER, expressed that while the majority of cases involving the new variants are mild, it is crucial to remain vigilant, particularly to safeguard those who are at higher risk. He advised individuals to wear masks in crowded settings, especially hospitals. If symptoms such as fever, cough, breathing difficulties, runny nose, or diarrhea arise, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial. It is important to avoid the use of antibiotics or steroids without a physician's guidance. Additional precautions are recommended for vulnerable groups, including the elderly, individuals with existing health issues, and those with compromised immune systems, who should refrain from large gatherings and practice proper hand hygiene.
