Stomach flu cases up in Bengaluru; doctors suggest handwash with soap
Posted 10 Apr 2023 | Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com

BENGALURU: Nothing can beat the joy of having an ice cream or falooda when the weather is sizzling hot. Roadside vendors offer an array of fresh fruits, milkshakes and juices, making you feel summer is the best season of the year.

Experts, however, say that it is a difficult season. Bengaluru is witnessing a rise in stomach flu cases with the arrival of summer.

"We have about 10 outpatients visiting our hospital daily, of whom 2-3 require admissions," said Dr Raj Vigna Venugopalan, HOD and consultant - medical gastroenterology, Manipal Hospitals, Old Airport Road.

At Specialist Hospital, there has been a 15% rise in walk-in patients complaining of stomach problems, most of which turn out to be stomach flu. The condition is aggravated due to the multiplication of microorganisms caused by the heat, said Dr Adarsh Nayak, general physician, Specialist Hospital.

Stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, is an intestinal infection commonly spread through contaminated food or water or contact with an infected person. It is characterised by watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting and, sometimes, fever.

"Although most healthy individuals recover without complications, it can be lethal for infants, older adults and those with weakened immune systems," said Dr Swati Rajagopal, consultant - infectious disease and travel medicine, Aster CMI Hospital.

Depending on the severity of the condition, cases can be classified as mild, moderate or severe, added Dr Nayak. "Mild cases can be treated by good hydration and probiotics, moderate bacterial cases require antibiotics, fluid resuscitation and probiotics. In severe cases, hospitalisation may be necessary." he said.

Left untreated, stomach flu could lead to complications. "We have had a couple of cases with profuse intractable diarrhoea, vomiting and high-grade fever, requiring admission for IV fluids, rehydration and symptomatic treatment for fever," said Dr Akshay P Jadhav, consultant, department of paediatrics and paediatrics super speciality, Belenus Champion Hospital, Sarjapur Road.

Stomach flu is not caused by the influenza viruses. It is commonly caused by viruses, including rotaviruses, noroviruses and adenoviruses. Bacteria and parasites can also lead to the infection.