CD Web Desk
Mangaluru: With hospitals and clinics across Dakshina Kannada reporting a rise in cases of fever and cough, the district health department has intensified disease surveillance and monitoring. While most cases are mild and not considered life-threatening, health officials have advised the public to seek medical attention if symptoms persist beyond two days.
District Surveillance Officer Dr Naveen Chandra Kulal said that the majority of cases reported in the district are seasonal viral fever and flu, which typically subside within two to three days with basic treatment. However, he cautioned that persistent symptoms should not be ignored, as they may indicate infections such as H1N1 or other communicable diseases.
“Viral fever is common during this season and is not currently a cause for concern. However, symptoms such as high fever, body or muscle aches, fatigue, gastroenteritis, and diarrhoea may overlap with those of more serious illnesses,” Dr Kulal said.
He added that individuals should immediately consult a doctor if the fever rises to extremely high levels, or if symptoms such as severe shivering, intense body pain, or continuous diarrhoea develop. “Such symptoms may be linked to diseases like leptospirosis, malaria, dengue, or other infections. Since many illnesses present similar signs, people should not rely solely on home remedies if symptoms persist,” he noted.
As part of preventive measures, health department staff are conducting routine surveillance across the district, including door-to-door visits to collect information on fever and related illnesses. “These surveys help us monitor the situation closely and ensure there are no serious outcomes or fatalities,” Dr Kulal said.
District Health Officer Dr Thimmaiah HR said that regular review meetings are being held with taluk-level health officials, who have been instructed to remain vigilant and take preventive steps, particularly to curb the spread of dengue and other seasonal diseases.
