Flu cases surge in Mumbai hospitals as temperatures rise

Medical experts attribute the spike to fluctuating weather conditions, which weaken immunity and facilitate the spread of infections. “Yes, illnesses are common during changes in temperature. The body has to adapt quickly to extreme shifts in environmental conditions, whether cold or heat. Common symptoms during such transitions include fever, dry cough, sore throat, and muscle pain,” said Dr. Sachin Shivnitwar, Professor, Department of Medicine, DPU Super Speciality Hospital.

On February 16, Mumbai recorded unusually high temperatures, with the IMD Santacruz observatory recording 36.1°C (4.5°C above normal) and Colaba at 32.4°C (2.2°C above normal). A day earlier, temperatures soared to 36.7°C, over five degrees above normal. The IMD forecasts a further spike, with daytime temperatures expected to reach 38°C on Saturday

Public hospitals such as KEM, Sion, and Nair have reported an uptick in outpatient visits for flu-related symptoms. “On average, we are seeing a 30-40% increase in flu cases compared to last month. Many patients are also experiencing prolonged cough and fatigue post-recovery,” said Dr Mohan Joshi, dean of Sion Hospital. He warned that while most cases are mild, some patients develop complications such as pneumonia, requiring hospitalisation.

Private healthcare facilities have also seen a steady rise in flu admissions. “We are getting at least 15-20 flu patients daily, many of whom require antiviral treatment. The trend is concerning, especially among those with underlying conditions like asthma and diabetes,” said Dr. Kavita Mehta, a general practitioner at a suburban hospital.

According to epidemiologists, climate change is playing a crucial role in shifting seasonal disease patterns. Warmer temperatures and irregular rainfall create breeding grounds for viruses, leading to prolonged flu seasons. “Previously, we would see a spike in flu cases around monsoons and winter. Now, due to erratic weather patterns, we are experiencing an extended flu season, with cases persisting well into February and March,” said Dr. Gautam Bhansali, consultant physician at Bombay Hospital.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has urged residents to take precautions, emphasising hand hygiene, mask usage in crowded places, and vaccination for high-risk groups. “The flu vaccine remains an effective preventive measure, especially for senior citizens, children, and those with comorbidities,” said a BMC health officer.

Doctors have advised the public to stay hydrated, avoid self-medication, and seek medical attention if flu symptoms persist for more than five days.