Viral fever: 113 kids admitted to Bihar’s govt hospitals in 24 hours

PATNA: As per the government data, 830 children with complaints of viral fever visited outpatient departments (OPDs) of different government hospitals across the state on Tuesday. Among them, 113 were admitted to different hospitals and the rest prescribed medicines.

At least 6,800 such cases have so far been reported this month at different government hospitals in the state and 14 children have died.

Additional chief secretary of health department, Sanjay Kumar Singh, said these data were provided by different government hospitals, including district and sub-divisional hospitals. Private hospitals in the state have also been treating many children suffering from viral fever.

Singh said most children return home after check-up in the OPD and take prescribed medicines at home. “Some children recover in five to six days after proper medication. They don’t need hospitalisation. None of the children visiting the OPDs of government hospital with complaint of viral fever has so far been tested positive for Covid-19,” Singh said.

He cited humid weather as one of the reasons for viral fever among children along with receding floodwaters. “This happens every year. Hence, parents should not panic,” Singh added.

Former head of Patna Medical College and Hospital paediatrics department Dr Nigam Prakash Narain said parents should follow Covid-appropriate behaviour to protect their children from viruses. “Infected people should keep away from children,” Dr Narain said, adding such viral cases happen every year, though it has happened a little early this year. “These cases have nothing to do with Covid-19. However, people should keep their surroundings clean,” Dr Narain said.

Muzaffarpur-based paediatrician Dr Arun Shah has also advised parents to follow all safety protocols and encourage their children to maintain hand hygiene. “Most children suffering from viral fever respond well to medicines. Some even don’t need to visit the doctor. However, parents should monitor their kids. In case of loss of appetite and breathing problem, one should visit the nearest paediatrician without delay. In case of persistent high fever too, doctors should be consulted,” he added.