Kolkata: A recurrent bout of cough and cold has laid hundreds low across Kolkata, with many suffering a repeat attack within a week of recovery. Temperature fluctuations are likely to have increased the viral load in the air, causing second attacks, say doctors.
Multiple viruses on the prowl during this transition period before winter are causing repeat attacks, said Charnock Hospital pulmonology head Soumya Sengupta. "Once a viral infection strikes, the defence mechanism of the lungs—respiratory cilia—gets stunted and can't protect us from other viruses. It takes about three to four weeks for the cilia to regain effective functioning. At this time, the lungs stay vulnerable to a repeat viral attacks," he said. He added recovery would be quicker if patients stuck to nasal sprays, steam inhalation and gurgling rather than taking antibiotics and cough syrups. "These provide temporary relief but don't address the major viral symptom—inflammation of airways," said Sengupta.
For many, the infection was flaring up after subsiding for a few days, giving the impression of a second attack, said Manipal Hospital infectious diseases physician Sayan Chakrabarty. "Many haven't recovered fully and still have airways inflammation. Due to the residual infection, the symptoms are flaring up due to weakened immunity. Many are getting a second attack as well. It will be on till winter sets in," he said.
Usual suspects, rhinovirus, metapneumo, RSV, apart from influenza B, were striking, said Peerless Hospital chief microbiologist Bhaskar Narayan Chaudhuri. "We have received multiple cases of recurrent and secondary infections, mostly bacterial. Bacterial streptococcus, haemophilus, and klebsiella have been rampant in the past 10 days. The elderly are mostly getting repeat infections," he said.
As we transition into winter, the fluctuations between day and night temperatures were impacting respiratory health, said Abhishek Kolay, consultant pulmonologist, BP Poddar Hospital. "Sudden temperature shifts weaken the upper airway's natural defence. Also, prolonged indoor stays with poor ventilation, rising pollution levels and dry winter air contribute to symptoms and increased susceptibility to infections," he said, adding prevention played a key. "Apart from keeping a steady indoor temperature, staying well-hydrated and using saline nasal rinses, a diet rich in antioxidants, enough sleep and annual influenza vaccination help strengthen immunity. For those with repeated symptoms or a persistent cough, timely evaluation is needed," Kolay said.
In the last week, BP Poddar saw a 20% footfall surge in the chest clinic, said group advisor Supriyo Chakraborty. Those below 12 and above 65 and with weakened immune systems had recurrent infections frequently, said MS Purkait, medical super, Techno India DAMA Hospital.