Overcrowded hospitals of Solan battle spike in Viral infections -

Shimla, Feb 10,

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Solan district in Himachal Pradesh is experiencing a sharp rise in viral infections, with a significant number of cases linked to people returning from the Maha Kumbh, one of India’s largest religious gatherings. Hospitals in the region are overwhelmed as outpatient departments (OPDs) witness a surge in patients suffering from fever, cough, cold, and body pain. The health department has expressed concern over the situation, warning that the number of cases could escalate further if preventive measures are not taken.

Hospitals in Solan are struggling to accommodate the influx of patients, with long queues forming outside OPDs and a sharp rise in admissions at the regional hospital. Dr. M.P. Singh, Medical Superintendent of the hospital, confirmed a significant increase in patients visiting the medicine OPD. “Considering the condition of the patients, many are being admitted to the wards for treatment. The number of ward admissions has also risen compared to previous days,” he said. The situation has become so dire that, in some cases, two patients are being treated on a single bed, raising concerns about the spread of infections within hospital premises. The health department has issued an advisory urging people to consume hot beverages and protect themselves from the cold to prevent further spread.

A large number of patients showing viral symptoms have recently returned from the Maha Kumbh in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Many of them started experiencing body pain, fever, and cold within days of returning. On Saturday alone, 326 patients visited the OPD of the regional hospital, with the majority suffering from viral infections. The Maha Kumbh, which attracts millions of pilgrims from across the country, has often been associated with health risks due to overcrowding and poor sanitation. This year, the event appears to have been a major source of viral infections, with returnees bringing the virus back to their hometowns. Dr. Amit Ranjan Talwar, Additional Chief Medical Officer of Solan, has advised people to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms. “Drink warm water and protect yourself from the cold to avoid falling ill,” he urged.

The current dry and cold weather in the region is further contributing to the rapid spread of viral infections. The combination of low temperatures and high humidity creates an ideal environment for viruses to thrive. Health officials have warned that the situation could worsen if the cold wave continues and people do not take adequate precautions.

Amid the ongoing viral outbreak, there is some relief for the district as the number of jaundice cases, which had seen a sharp increase in January, has now declined significantly. In the past eight days, only 11 cases have been reported, with some from the city and others from the outskirts. The district health department had issued an alert in January when jaundice cases began to rise, and the recent decline is a positive development for the overstretched healthcare system.

The Maha Kumbh, meant to be a spiritually uplifting experience, has instead turned into a health crisis for many pilgrims. After enduring uncomfortable journeys and the risks associated with massive crowds, returnees are now battling viral infections.

Health officials are urging people to take preventive measures seriously. “The rise in viral cases is a cause for concern. People should avoid crowded places, maintain personal hygiene, and seek medical help at the earliest if they experience symptoms,” said Dr. Talwar. The health department is also ramping up efforts to create awareness about the importance of staying warm and hydrated during the cold season.

Himachalscape bureau

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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