Summer Cough Surge: Viral Mix Strains Twin Cities

Twin cities in Odisha are experiencing a significant increase in respiratory ailments as summer approaches. Over the past three weeks, cases of persistent cough with throat irritation and breathlessness have risen by 50% to 100%. Doctors note that mutated, less virulent strains of coronaviruses, along with influenza viruses, are responsible for these conditions.

These viruses do not typically cause severe illness like pneumonia but lead to prolonged coughs, sometimes lasting up to a month. The rise is particularly pronounced among children, with some pediatricians reporting a doubling of daily cases. Government facilities are also seeing twice the number of patients compared to three weeks ago.

Medical professionals advise vulnerable individuals to get flu shots and recommend frequent hand washing and mask usage in crowded places. Factors such as seasonal changes, rising temperatures, dust, pollen, and air pollution may exacerbate these symptoms, leading to airway hyperreactivity.