Hospitals in Delhi are ramping up their preparations to tackle the possible surge in cases of seasonal diseases with the onset of winter weather in the capital city. With the dipping temperature and the increase in cases of foggy mornings, along with poor air quality, healthcare centers are preparing for an influx of patients with respiratory diseases, viral fever, allergies, and other diseases related to cold weather.
Experts state that winter season tends to see cases of common cold, flu, bronchitis, asthma attacks, and throat infections rising greatly. The most affected during that time are the elderly, children, and those suffering from pre-existing conditions like respiratory or heart problems. Hence, hospitals have also checked their staff, stock of medication, and plans for tackling emergencies.
It has been noticed that a few government-run as well as private hospitals have been observing a surge in the number of people consulting the outpatient departments (OPD) within the last few days. Moreover, doctors have come across an increasing number of patients complaining about symptoms such as fever, cough, throat pain, short breath, and body aches.
The Health Department of the capital, Delhi, has directed all health facilities to be on high alert regarding the availability of key medicines, oxygen support, and emergency facilities. Health facilities have also been directed to improve their triage services in handling the flow of patients, including the peak period. It is imperative to be prepared to prevent overcrowding and ensure quality services.
Doctors explained that the sudden changes in temperature, along with air pollution and low immunities in winter, are major contributing factors for the increment in seasonal diseases. The unavailability of proper ventilation in closed environments accelerates the transmission of viruses. The hospital has instructed patients to practice simple precautions to stay safe from the disease and advised them to wear masks in public and avoid exposure to cold air in the mornings and at night.
The emergency centers are also advised to remain vigilant about serious cases, especially for the elderly and for people suffering from chronic illnesses such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, and those with heart conditions. This is because some hospitals reserve a section for people exhibiting flu symptoms in order to lower the chances of infection.
Pediatricians in the city have recorded a sudden rise in the number of children suffering from cold, cough, and viral fever. Schools and parents have been advised to take extra care and not send children to school in case they show any symptoms of illness. The need for warm clothing, healthy food, and fluids has been emphasized by health experts in order to retain immunity.
Apart from concerns regarding physical health, hospitals are also dealing with the effects of cold weather on mental health. Lack of outdoor activities and short daylight contribute to low moods and lethargy, especially among the elderly. It is advised to remain active indoors and, if symptoms of anxiety or depression occur, consult health specialists.
By late morning hours, the queues in OPDs are under control; however, officials from these hospitals admitted that there could be an influx of patients should the cold wave conditions continue. The healthcare staff are scheduled on a rotation in order not to overload them with possible cases. The authorities again reiterated that most cases of seasonal diseases can be prevented through timely measures. The public is advised to take measures to stay warm, limit contact with cold and pollution, develop immunity through immunity-building diets, and seek medical attention in case symptoms of illness appear. Moving into winter season, collective cooperation between hospitals, health authorities, and public is expected to play an important role in stemming the effects of seasonal diseases to ensure effective healthcare access for all people residing in Delhi.
