Spike in seasonal infection cases in Delhi, doctors advise avoiding self-medication

 New Delhi: With the rising cases of monsoon-related infections coming to outpatient departments (OPDs) of hospitals in the national capital, doctors have advised people to maintain hygiene and opt for consultation before taking medication for illness. 

According to doctors, this year's monsoon and subsequent floods in Delhi have caused sanitation issues, leading to a rise in seasonal infections. 

"This year is different. The monsoon has been quite aggressive. We have not seen such monsoons in Delhi for a long time, and diseases are also associated with the flood. We have noticed a lot of cases of Typhoid.

Dengue has started picking up, and Conjunctivitis is on the rise," Dr Souradipta Chandra, a consultant physician, Internal Medicine, Helvetia Medical and Diagnostic Centre, said while speaking to ANI. 

"Any sort of self-medication should be avoided. If a typhoid patient starts taking antibiotics that may not be effective against the disease, eventually the body will develop resistance to the drugs. So have a word with your doctor. If your Conjunctivitis is of viral origin and you start taking eye drops that have steroids in them, you actually take a risk of prolonging the infection," he added.

He further mentioned the causes of Conjunctivitis disease and urged the public to take the necessary precautions.

"Currently, we have seen a rise in cases of conjunctivitis. Its symptoms are redness and watery pus from the eye. Usually, the causes are bacteria. Remember, this disease does not spread by looking into the eyes of another person. Maintain hygiene; those who are infected should wear glasses and wash their eyes with cold water," he added.

Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, Sr Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, said that Conjunctivitis patients should be isolated to prevent spreading to other people.

Conjunctivitis, which at this moment is common in Delhi, is also caused by viruses or bacteria and presents as eye redness, itching, eye discomfort and discharge. It needs isolation to prevent spread to other people, eye care and sometimes antibiotics under the guidance of an ophthalmologist, the doctor said.

Dr. Avi Kumar, Senior Consultant, Pulmonology, Fortis Escorts, Okhla, said that patient should seek immediate medical attention promptly once they experience any symptoms of these diseases or conjunctivitis.

"In Conjunctivitis, wash hands regularly, avoid touching eyes, and don't share personal items. Consult a doctor. If you have symptoms like redness, itching, and discharge from the eyes. Avoid self-medication, follow the prescribed treatment and avoid using over-the-counter eye drops. Remember to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any symptoms of these diseases or conjunctivitis," he said.

He further stated that people should stay hydrated and must try to avoid street food in this season to prevent Typhoid. “Consume only clean and cooked food, and maintain proper sanitation. Prevention and care during monsoon. Stay hydrated. Avoid street food. Keep surroundings clean,” he added.