THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
After a sharp spike over the last two months, influenza and viral flu cases are now showing a clear decline across Goa, according to health officials and private medical practitioners.
However, doctors have cautioned that fluctuating weather conditions and the approaching winter season could trigger a fresh surge in infections.
A source in the Health Department's Epidemiology Cell confirmed that Influenza A (H1N1) cases have fallen significantly in recent weeks. The official, however, declined to share data, stating that he was not authorised by the government to release the information.
Private practitioners across the State echoed the assessment, saying the wave of infections that peaked in August and September has largely subsided.
"There was a pretty bad surge in August-September, which has substantially ebbed now," said senior physician Dr Oscar Rebello.
According to Rebello, many patients diagnosed with influenza required hospitalisation, with some severe cases ending up in intensive care units, particularly among the elderly.
"But as always in Goa, all's well that ends well," he remarked.
Other doctors also said the recent outbreak was marked by prolonged illness, persistent symptoms and a higher-than-usual number of complications among vulnerable groups.
Mapusa-based Dr Sandip Naik said the surge had been ongoing for nearly two months before beginning to taper off.
"Yes, it's been going on for the past two months. Now it's declining," he said.
Patients suffering from diabetes and allergic bronchitis were among the worst affected, he added.
"For many of them, it became a month-long suffering, not responding much to medication and in some cases leading to hospitalisation or ICU care."
Naik said a considerable number of patients had tested positive for H1N1 during the outbreak.
He also suggested that environmental factors may have contributed to the severity of respiratory illnesses during the period.
"The reduced rains increased air pollution. Ongoing road and bridge construction activity, coupled with inadequate dust-control measures, led to dust spreading deep into residential areas," he said.
Doctors nevertheless cautioned against letting down one's guard. Seasonal changes, cooler temperatures and increased circulation of respiratory viruses during winter could lead to another rise in cases.
They advised the elderly, diabetics, those with chronic respiratory ailments and people with weakened immunity to remain vigilant, maintain hygiene precautions and seek medical attention early if symptoms persist.
