Acute febrile illnesses emerge as major health concern; children remain most vulnerable

Chandigarh, 28 May (H.S.): Rising temperatures and humid summer conditions have triggered a sharp increase in seasonal illnesses across Punjab, putting additional pressure on government hospitals already crowded with patients seeking treatment for everyday ailments. Hospitals are witnessing a fresh wave of fever-related illnesses, respiratory infections and stomach disorders, a pattern doctors say repeats every summer with alarming regularity.

According to recent data from Punjab’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, acute febrile illness has emerged as one of the largest categories under cashless treatment claims in the last four months. Data received from the State Health Agency (SHA) revealed that Punjab recorded 5,840 cases of acute febrile illness, with claim payments amounting to nearly ₹1.31 crore.

Medical experts explain that acute febrile illness is not a single disease but a broad medical condition characterised by sudden onset of fever caused by viral, bacterial or parasitic infections. In many cases, patients arrive at outpatient departments with fever as the primary symptom, while the exact infection remains undiagnosed during the early stage.

The data also highlighted a noticeable burden of water-borne and respiratory illnesses. Enteric fever accounted for 1,396 registrations with claims worth ₹30.47 lakh. Pneumonia recorded 377 cases costing ₹11.06 lakh, while acute bronchitis accounted for 326 cases with claims crossing ₹9.24 lakh.

Diseases commonly associated with the monsoon season, however, remained comparatively limited. Dengue fever recorded only 12 cases with claims worth ₹40,880, while malaria and chikungunya accounted for three and six cases respectively. Heat stroke was reported in only four cases.

Dr. Vikas Goyal, Medical Superintendent of Civil Hospital, Patiala, said the current trend reflects the predictable seasonal patient load seen every year. He explained that extreme heat and humidity often lead to fever, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, respiratory infections, and skin or eye allergies. He added that many people delay medical consultation due to the harsh weather, which worsens their condition.

Dr. Goyal said the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana has become a major support for patients by providing cashless indoor treatment facilities. “The scheme allows people to seek timely medical care without worrying about financial burden,” he said.

Children remain particularly vulnerable during extreme summer conditions. Dr. Shashi Kant Dhir, Professor and Head of Pediatrics at Guru Gobind Singh Medical College, Faridkot, warned that infants and young children are highly susceptible to infections during this season. He advised parents not to ignore symptoms such as persistent fever, vomiting, dehydration, fast breathing or seizures.

Health experts have also stressed the need for awareness campaigns, hygiene education, vaccination drives and mosquito-control measures to prevent larger outbreaks in the coming months.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH