Influenza cases surge among children in Chennai. Experts stress the need for timely medical assistance

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Pediatricians have noticed an increase in the number of children showing flu symptoms in Chennai over the past two to three weeks. There are also cases of dengue fever and hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) among children in the city.

At least 60 to 70 children with flu symptoms are seen every day at the Kanchi Kamakoti Children's Trust Hospital (KKCTH). Dengue cases have also been on the rise for the past two weeks, but they are all stable. Janani Sankar, medical director of KKCTH, said HFMD, a viral infection, is also prevalent, but spreads rapidly but is naturally contained and treated symptomatically.

“The change in seasons has led to an increase in influenza-like illnesses in children. In February last year, there was an outbreak of infections caused by adenovirus, but earlier this year the situation was manageable. Currently, we “We are primarily seeing infections caused by influenza A and B viruses and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV),” she said.

JK Reddy, Senior Consultant, Department of Pediatrics, Apollo Children's Hospital, said, “Almost 50% of the daily outpatient The number of infected people has been increasing in the past few weeks. The main symptoms are high fever, headache, body aches, cold, and cough. In addition, another member of the family is also sick. We have confirmed that what we are seeing in Chennai is a virus. We are currently conducting further testing with a respiratory virus panel that tests for all influenza viruses, COVID-19, and RSV, and currently finds influenza and RSV to be the most common. I did.”

Dr Janani Sankar said a high fever that lasts for three to four days and a cough that lasts for a week is distressing for parents, adding: Decreased activity due to extreme fatigue. Many of them are bedridden and their parents are worried about them. Treatment is symptomatic, but our hospital accepts a small number of patients because oral intake is insufficient. If the child is less than 1 year old, an X-ray is recommended to rule out viral pneumonia, but only a small percentage of cases are currently reported. ” She stressed that children should report to the hospital if they refuse to eat, feel drowsy or have rapid breathing.

“Dengue fever accounts for 10-20% of our daily cases. It is very important to seek medical help if your child is unwell in the post-febrile stage. It is common and should not be overlooked. Dengue fever can lead to complications,” Dr Reddy added.

Hydration is critical, he said, adding: “Rest, adequate hydration and timely medical assistance are essential. Parents are more likely to ask for antibiotics for a child's high fever, but viruses It is important to understand that antibiotics are not effective against sexual fever. Do not get biological substances or take too much paracetamol. Paracetamol is prescribed based on the child's weight and not on the child's age. The former comes in drops and syrups, so the doctor should not take it too seriously. It must be administered carefully as prescribed.”

High fever means a body temperature of 102 to 103 degrees Fahrenheit. He said paracetamol should be prescribed for fevers above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Regarding influenza, he emphasized the need for an annual influenza vaccine, especially for children who are known to have asthma, are on medication, or are immunocompromised.

“HFMD affects 10% to 15% of school-going children. Symptoms include a high fever followed by a rash on the palms, feet, and back on the second or third day. ” he said.