In recent weeks, Hyderabad has witnessed a surge in cases of an enigmatic respiratory virus displaying symptoms reminiscent of adenovirus, influenza, and Swine Flu. Notably, this virus seems to target either children or adults with preexisting health conditions. However, experts in the field have been quick to reassure the public that there is no need for undue alarm, as the virus boasts a 100% recovery rate within a relatively short timeframe of five days. Common indicators of this virus encompass a sore throat, dry cough, fever, runny nose, breathing difficulties, and body aches.
Dr. Syed Abdul Aleem, a Pulmonology Consultant at CARE Hospitals in Musheerabad, Hyderabad, shed light on the situation. He reported that they have been encountering cases of an acute febrile viral illness for the past 6-8 weeks, often accompanied by symptoms resembling a common cold. The virus has afflicted around 6-7% of the population, with half of those cases affecting children. Dr. Aleem attributed this higher susceptibility in children to their less developed immune systems. The other 50% of patients with comorbidities such as COPD (commonly known as smoker's asthma), lung issues following tuberculosis or COVID-19, and asthma.
Dr. Aleem suggested that the unidentified virus could belong to the COVID-19, Influenza, Adeno, or MERS families and recommended conducting tests like Covid RT-PCR, H1N1, H3N2, and Influenza A&B to confirm the diagnosis. In terms of treatment, healthcare providers are administering symptomatic care at an early stage. For patients experiencing respiratory distress, they are employing an antiviral drug called 'Oseltamivir,' which has yielded promising outcomes.
To prevent the spread of this mysterious virus, Dr. Aleem advised taking precautionary measures such as wearing N95 masks when coughing or sneezing, maintaining social distance, practicing good hygiene, and getting vaccinated against influenza.