Hospitals see surge in cold, cough and bronchitis cases amid cold wave and pollution

Bhubaneswar: With cold wave-like conditions and rise in pollution, hospitals in the city and other parts of the state are witnessing a surge in patients complaining of common cold, cough and bronchitis. The share of children was higher among the patients visiting hospitals and clinics.

Experts said air pollution and viruses like rhinovirus and adenovirus cause common cold, cough and respiratory illness in winter. They advised people to maintain hygiene and consult doctors if coughing continues for a longer period.


Dr Anupam Dey, professor and head of general medicine, AIIMS Bhubaneswar, said they found that patients are suffering from prolonged cough this winter. “A patient suffers irritation, allergic reaction and inflammation due to the cough. It is happening because of post-viral infection and weakness in the defence mechanism of the epithelium inside the respiratory tract,” he added.

He said people who face regular exposure to dust and air pollution are suffering from prolonged cough during winter. “We prescribe them anti-allergic drugs, but the cough does not subside in some patients. We are getting more patients suffering from common cold and cough in winter compared to other seasons. People get cold and fever due to viral infection, but they take antibiotics on their own, which is not advisable. It may not work and create problems for the patient,” he added.

Dr Dhananjaya Das, deputy superintendent of Capital Hospital, Bhubaneswar, said there has been a 20% increase in common cold, cough and bronchitis cases. “We are witnessing patients getting a prolonged cough this winter. Mutated versions of some viruses are creating such symptoms in people,” he added.

He said people should practise proper handwashing techniques and maintain hygiene. “They should not take over-the-counter medicines. Patients should not consume antibiotics without consulting a doctor. Stay hydrated, exercise and take a balanced diet. If needed, they can take flu shots,” he added.

Dr Pradeep Kumar Dey, senior consultant, department of paediatrics and neonatology of a corporate hospital, said pollution was the major reason behind prolonged cough and allergies. “The number of patients suffering from cough, cold and bronchitis has doubled this month compared to earlier months. We received many pneumonia patients as well,” he added.