Winter in Telangana: Here are dos and don’ts to combat seasonal flu

Hyderabad: Director of Public Health and Family Welfare (DPHFW) has issued a general health advisory about a potential rise in seasonal flu cases across the state.

This comes as Telangana experiences dry weather conditions and a noticeable dip in minimum temperatures.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Hyderabad, has forecast that minimum temperatures may fall by 2°C to 3°C below normal in isolated pockets over the next few days. Health officials caution that such conditions are conducive to the spread of acute respiratory infections, including seasonal influenza.

Understanding seasonal flu

Seasonal flu is an acute, contagious respiratory infection that spreads primarily through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Symptoms typically include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, fatigue, and weakness.

While most cases are mild and self-limiting, doctors note that recovery is taking longer than usual in several patients this season.

“Unlike earlier years where patients recovered within four to five days, many are now experiencing lingering fatigue, cough, and weakness for up to 10 days or more,” said Dr. S. Ramesh, senior physician speaking to NewsMeter.

Delayed recovery and Post-Viral fatigue

Doctors across public and private hospitals have observed that even after fever subsides, patients continue to report exhaustion, throat irritation, and reduced stamina.

“This is classic post-viral fatigue. People often resume work too early, which delays recovery and increases the risk of relapse,” explained Dr. Anjali Mehta, public health expert.

She added that adequate rest and hydration remain critical, even after symptoms appear to improve.

Health experts also caution that incomplete recovery can increase susceptibility to secondary infections, particularly in colder weather.

Vulnerable groups at higher risk

The advisory highlights that certain populations are more prone to severe illness and complications:

• Pregnant women

• Children under five years of age

• Older adults above 65 years

• Individuals with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, or weakened immunity

“These groups should seek medical advice at the earliest onset of symptoms rather than waiting for the illness to worsen,” Dr. Ramesh said.

Warning signs that need immediate medical attention

The health department urges residents to seek urgent care at the nearest government health facility if they experience:

• Persistent or very high fever

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

• Bluish discoloration of lips or skin

• Blood in sputum

• Altered behaviour, confusion, or drowsiness

During medical emergencies, citizens are advised to call the 108 ambulance services without delay.

Preventive measures recommended

To reduce the risk of infection and transmission, the advisory recommends the following:

• Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or handkerchief while coughing or sneezing

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water

• Avoid public places when experiencing fever, cough, or sneezing

• Maintain adequate hydration and consume nutritious food

• Ensure good ventilation with outdoor air in indoor spaces

• Get sufficient sleep and rest

“Simple hygiene practices and responsible behaviour can significantly reduce the spread of respiratory infections,” said Dr. Mehta.

Practices to avoid

Residents are also advised to avoid:

• Shaking hands

• Reusing tissues or handkerchiefs

• Crowded places

• Frequent touching of eyes, nose, and mouth

• Spitting in public areas

• Self-medication without medical consultation

“Unsupervised use of antibiotics or cold medications can delay proper diagnosis and recovery,” Dr. Mehta cautioned.

Public health facilities on alert

As part of precautionary measures, the Telangana government has ensured the availability of essential medicines and designated special beds across all public health facilities.

Dr. B. Ravinder Nayak, Director of Public Health and Family Welfare, emphasized that early reporting, adequate rest, and adherence to preventive measures are key to managing seasonal flu effectively during the colder period.