Telangana reports rise in upper respiratory tract infections; here’s everything you must know to stay safe

In the last few days, Telangana has reported a surge in cases of upper respiratory tract infections further prompting concerns about influenza, viral fevers, and pneumonia. This has led the Directorate of Public Health (DPH), Telangana to urge doctors and staff, as well as patients and the general public, to wear face masks to guard themselves against viral fevers, conjunctivitis, and influenza.

According to a report in Telangana Today, Hyderabad too is seeing a seasonal health crisis with cases of dengue and viral fevers on the rise. Former Health Minister, T Harish Rao took to X to write, “Exactly a month ago, we warned the state government about this kind of situation. Timely release of funds to conduct preventive activities in all the districts was the need of the hour. The impact of seasonal ailments can only be reduced by taking preventive activities before the onset of monsoons.”

What are upper respiratory tract infections?

Upper respiratory infections (URIs) in India are caused by a variety of pathogens, primarily viruses but also bacteria, said Dr Ravi Shekher Jha, senior consultant, department of pulmonology, MRCP, Fortis Hospital, Faridabad.

Common pathogens involved are:

Viral pathogens:

Rhinoviruses: The most common cause of the common cold, responsible for a large percentage of URIs. These viruses are highly contagious and spread easily through respiratory droplets.

Coronaviruses: While globally recognised for causing Covid-19, certain coronaviruses also contribute to milder URIs, similar to the common cold.

Adenoviruses: These can cause a range of illnesses, including the common cold, pharyngitis, and conjunctivitis. They are particularly common in children.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): A significant cause of respiratory illness in young children, RSV can lead to conditions like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, but it also causes milder URIs, said Dr Jha.

Keep your hydration levels in check (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Parainfluenza Viruses: These are major causes of croup in children, characterised by a barking cough, and can also lead to bronchitis and other respiratory illnesses.

Influenza Viruses: Though more commonly associated with lower respiratory infections like the flu, these viruses can also cause upper respiratory symptoms, especially in seasonal outbreaks, noted Dr Jha.

Bacterial pathogens:

Streptococcus pyogenes: This bacterium is the leading cause of bacterial pharyngitis, commonly known as strep throat. It can lead to complications like rheumatic fever, if untreated.
Haemophilus influenzae: Although more commonly associated with lower respiratory tract infections, it can cause sinusitis and otitis media.
Streptococcus pneumoniae: A frequent cause of bacterial sinusitis and sometimes otitis media, particularly in children.
Moraxella catarrhalis: This bacterium is often implicated in sinusitis, otitis media, and sometimes bronchitis, especially in children.

Fungal and other pathogens:

Aspergillus species: These can cause allergic reactions and fungal sinusitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or those with chronic sinus issues.

According to Dr Jha, these pathogens spread through direct contact with infected individuals or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face. “Poor air quality and environmental factors in India further exacerbate the spread and severity of these infections,” said Dr Jha.

Precautions to take

*Follow hand hygiene. Wash hands frequently, as well as use hand sanitisers often. Cover mouth while sneezing or cough
*Use air purifiers
*Get a flu vaccine
*Maintain proper hydration
*Avoid drinking and smoking
*If fever persists for more than two or three days, contact a general physician.

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