Tue May 20 17:37:38 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
**Bengaluru Faces Surge in Respiratory Illnesses Following Heavy Rains**
**Bengaluru, May 20, 2025** – Hospitals in Bengaluru are reporting a significant rise in respiratory, viral, and vector-borne infections following recent heavy rains and flooding. Doctors warn that the situation is likely to worsen, with a potential outbreak of diseases in the coming weeks.
Major government hospitals are already seeing a daily influx of 10-15 patients suffering from upper and lower respiratory tract infections, viral fever, and related ailments. Common symptoms include sore throat, fever, runny nose, cough, allergic bronchitis, asthma, and middle ear infections.
“The early onset of the monsoon has led to a surge in upper respiratory infections,” said Dr. Brunda M.S., Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine at Aster CMI Hospital. She noted that travel during school vacations may be contributing to the spread, with changes in environment and water sources triggering infections, especially in children and the elderly.
Dr. Sachin Kumar, Director of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine at Sakra World Hospital, confirmed a rise in influenza-like illnesses. “We are seeing patients reporting with a one-day fever or mild fever accompanied by cough and cold,” he stated, adding that some pneumonia cases requiring hospitalization have also been observed.
While dengue cases are currently lower than in previous years, Dr. Aravinda G.M., Consultant – Internal Medicine at Manipal Hospital Jayanagar, noted a recent increase following unseasonal rains. He anticipates a further rise after the current rainy spell.
While most flu patients recover with symptomatic treatment, doctors advise caution for elderly individuals and those undergoing chemotherapy or dialysis, as they may experience more serious complications.
Bengaluru residents are urged to take precautions to protect themselves from infection, particularly during this period of increased risk.
First Piper 