Weather change and viral fevers have been heard of together quite often since the last decade. Especially during monsoons, the statistics for viral fevers go up significantly and the nearby doctor’s clinics are lined up with patients. Cold and cough also continue to accompany this short-term illness taking a toll on all of us collectively.
However, fever basically occurs as an immunity response to the virus that attacks our body. In this blog, we would go in-depth to understand what exactly viral fever is, its symptoms, why it is more common in the monsoons, and where and how to seek medical treatments such as recognized hospitals or clinics like Ruby Hall Clinic.
Viral Fever – An In-depth Understanding
Viral fevers are caused by a variety of viruses and can affect individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Viral fevers are common throughout the world and can easily spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces.
When a virus enters the body, it invades and replicates in the host cells, activating the immune system. This immune response causes the brain to release certain chemicals called pyrogens that act on the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus, which regulates body temperature, raises body temperature to an unhealthy environment for bacteria, inhibiting their growth and replication
There are influenza virus, rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, dengue virus, chikungunya virus, and many other viruses. Each species has its mode of infection and symptoms, which can affect the severity of the flu and the duration of the delay.
Symptoms of Viral Fever To Recognize It
Depending on the virus that caused the infection and the individual’s immune response, the symptoms of viral fever can vary. However, some common viral fever symptoms include:
- Fever: A high body temperature is a defining feature of viral fever. It is frequently the body’s natural response to a viral infection.
- Headache: Many people who have viral fever have headaches that range from mild to severe.
- Body aches and muscle pain: During viral infections, generalized body aches and muscle pain are common.
- Fatigue: Feeling tired and lethargic is common during a viral fever as the body fights the infection.
- Chills and shivering: Chills and shivering may occur in some people, especially when the fever is high.
- Sore throat: A sore throat can be caused by viral infections of the upper respiratory tract.
- Cough: Some viral fevers, particularly those affecting the respiratory system, can cause a dry or productive cough.
- Runny or stuffy nose: Nasal congestion or a runny nose can be caused by viral infections such as the common cold.
- Nausea and vomiting: Viral fever can be accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting in some cases.
- Diarrhea: Certain viral infections, particularly in children, can cause diarrhea.
- Skin rashes: Some viral fevers, such as dengue or measles, can cause peculiar skin rashes.
- Swollen lymph nodes: Swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, armpits, or groin, can result from viral infections.
It should be noted that these symptoms are non-specific and can occur in a variety of viral infections.
Fuelling Fevers – Why Monsoon Favors Viral Infection?
Rain, humidity, and monsoon seasons can all have an impact on the spread of viral diseases by creating an environment favourable for spreading the virus and transmission. Let’s look at how these monsoon weather patterns can exacerbate viral infections and increase the occurrence of fevers:
- Humidity and Airborne Transmission: High humidity levels during monsoons promote the suspension of viral particles in the air for longer periods of time. When infected people cough, sneeze, or talk, the virus-containing respiratory droplets remain in the air for an extended period of time, increasing the risk of transmission to others. As a result, viruses that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza and the common cold spread more easily during the monsoon season.
- Stagnant Water and Vector-Borne Diseases: During the monsoon season, heavy rainfall causes stagnant water to accumulate in puddles and waterlogged areas. These bodies of stagnant water serve as breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitos. Because mosquitoes thrive in these conditions, mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and malaria see an increase in cases during the monsoon season.
- Dampness and Fungal Infections: During the monsoon season, the increased moisture in the atmosphere and dampness in homes and living spaces create an ideal environment for the growth of fungi. During this time, skin and nail fungal infections become more common, especially in areas with poor ventilation or hygiene.
- Weakened Immune System: The monsoon season can also have an effect on the immune system. Fluctuating weather, combined with the prevalence of viral infections, can weaken the immune system, making people more vulnerable to viral infections.
How to Prevent Viral Fever Infections During Monsoons?
During the monsoon season, preventing viral fever requires a combination of personal habits, home cleanliness, and community actions. Individuals can reduce their risk of contracting viral infections and contribute to overall community health by following these precautions:
1. Personal Habits:
- Hygiene: It is critical to practise good hygiene in order to prevent the spread of viral infections. Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public places or touching potentially contaminated surfaces. If soap and water are not available, alcohol-based hand sanitizers should be used.
- Immunity Boosting: Immune system strengthening can help the body fight infections more effectively. Immunity can be boosted by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and essential nutrients.
- Balanced Diet: Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is critical to ensuring that the body receives the nutrients it requires to function properly. A healthy body is better equipped to fight viral infections.
2. Home Cleanliness:
- Moisture Management: Keeping the indoor environment dry and well-ventilated is critical during the monsoon season. Use dehumidifiers or fans to remove excess moisture, which can promote the growth of fungi and bacteria.
- Cleaning Routine: Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and mobile phones, on a regular basis. This reduces the possibility of viral particles surviving on surfaces.
- Waste Disposal: Dispose of household waste, including food waste, properly to avoid attracting pests such as flies and rats, which can carry and spread diseases.
3. Role of Community Actions:
- Awareness Campaigns: Public health officials should conduct public awareness campaigns during the monsoon season to educate the public about the risks of viral infections and preventive measures. Personal hygiene, cleanliness, and, if available, vaccination against specific viral diseases can all be emphasised in these campaigns.
- Public Area Management: Local governments and municipalities should ensure that public spaces are properly maintained, especially during the monsoon season. Proper drainage and waste management can help to prevent water stagnation and reduce breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitos.
- Healthcare Services: During the monsoon season, health facilities and healthcare providers should be well-prepared to deal with potential outbreaks of viral fever. This includes having enough medical supplies, trained staff, and the ability to diagnose and treat viral infections quickly.
The risk of contracting viral fever and other infectious diseases can be significantly reduced by implementing these preventive measures at both the individual and community levels, promoting a healthier and safer monsoon season for everyone.
Viral vs. Common Cold: Knowing the Difference
While the common cold is a mild viral infection that usually clears up on its own with rest and home remedies, it’s important to distinguish it from more serious viral fevers, which may necessitate medical attention. Here are some important factors to consider:
- Duration and Severity: The common cold usually lasts a few days to a week and is characterised by mild symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and a low-grade fever. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen for more than 10 days, or if the fever becomes severe, it could indicate a more serious viral infection.
- Difficulty Breathing: Severe respiratory symptoms, such as shortness of breath, rapid breathing, or chest pain, should not be overlooked. These symptoms could be the result of a respiratory infection or complications such as pneumonia, which necessitate immediate medical attention.
- Persistent High Fever: If the fever lasts more than a few days and remains high (above 101°F or 38.5°C), it could be a sign of a more serious viral infection that requires medical evaluation and treatment.
- Unusual Rash: A rash or skin lesions, especially if accompanied by a fever, may indicate a more serious viral fever such as dengue, measles, or chickenpox.
- Altered Mental Status: Confusion, disorientation, or any other significant changes in mental alertness should be regarded as a red flag, as they may indicate a severe viral infection of the central nervous system.
Seek immediate help in case you or someone you know suffer from the following:
- Severe difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent high fever (above 103°F or 39.4°C)
- Chest pain or pressure
- Confusion or altered mental status
- Seizures or convulsions
- Severe dehydration or inability to drink fluids
- Uncontrolled vomiting
- Severe weakness or lethargy
- Significant decrease in urine output
- Unexplained bleeding or bruising
Navigating Treatment Options
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that go beyond a common cold or shows any of the warnings listed above, it is critical that you seek medical attention. To effectively manage any serious viral infection, a proper diagnosis and treatment are required.
For example, Ruby Hall Clinic, a well-known healthcare institution in Pune, provides a wide range of medical services to diagnose and treat various viral infections and other health conditions. Their team of skilled medical professionals can provide:
- Diagnostic Services: Ruby Hall Clinic has cutting-edge diagnostic equipment to accurately identify the causative virus and assess the severity of the infection.
- Medical Consultation: Ruby Hall Clinic’s skilled doctors can provide expert guidance and personalised treatment plans based on the individual’s symptoms and medical history.
- Inpatient Care: Ruby Hall Clinic offers specialised inpatient care and monitoring for severe cases or complications to ensure patients receive the necessary medical attention.
- Intensive Care: To handle critical cases, the hospital has intensive care units (ICUs) staffed by highly trained medical professionals.
- Supportive Care: Patients may require supportive care, such as hydration, pain relief, and management of complications, in addition to antiviral medications, which Ruby Hall Clinic can provide.
Remember that early detection and prompt medical intervention can have a significant impact on the outcome of serious viral infections. If you or someone you know exhibits serious symptoms or warning signs, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is critical for proper management and recovery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, staying informed about the risks of viral fever in the monsoon season is crucial. Preventive measures, early detection, and community awareness are key to safeguarding our health. Stay vigilant, protect yourself, and enjoy a safe monsoon season.
