Dhaka: Fifty-seven percent of patients admitted to hospitals with symptoms like fever, cold, cough, headache, and body aches this year are found to be infected with influenza.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, data from the Institute of Epidemiology Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) and the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) show a significant rise in influenza cases. The outbreak of fever is widespread across the country, affecting individuals of all ages.
The symptoms experienced by those infected include severe body pain and a prolonged recovery period, often lasting one to two weeks. Even after the fever subsides, individuals continue to experience physical weakness. Vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, patients with respiratory issues, and those with low immunity are experiencing heightened suffering.
In recent times, whenever someone develops a fever, there is immediate concern about possible infections like dengue or chikungunya. However, this year, the influenza virus has been the predominant cause. Compared to previous years, there is a noticeable increase in the number of individuals contracting this virus.
Experts from IEDCR indicate that many of these cases are attributed to seasonal fever, with patients often spreading the illness within families. The common symptoms include fever caused by respiratory tract infections. They advise that individuals with mild symptoms should rest at home, hydrate, maintain hygiene, and avoid antibiotics without professional consultation.
An analysis of hospital data reveals an increased influx of patients with fever, leading to a higher demand for fever medications and diagnostic tests. IEDCR Advisor Dr. Md. Mushtaq Hossain confirmed the rise in influenza cases this year alongside increases in dengue and chikungunya infections. He emphasized the importance of not panicking and seeking medical advice promptly.
In July, IEDCR and icddr,b conducted a surveillance study on 1,847 patients from 19 hospitals, finding that 57 percent were infected with influenza. This marks a significant increase from 25 percent in 2023, with the highest infection rate recorded in June 2024 at 37 percent, the highest since 2007, according to IEDCR.
The World Health Organization notes that seasonal flu is a respiratory infection spread by sneezing and coughing, with most patients recovering without treatment. However, high-risk individuals may face severe illness. Public health expert Lelin Chowdhury described influenza as a seasonal virus with symptoms similar to corona or dengue but without bleeding.
The icddrb highlights that Bangladesh’s flu season runs from April to September, recommending vaccination and personal hygiene measures to mitigate risk. Data from Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute indicate a rise in child patients with cold and fever, with 66.67 percent in June and 86.18 percent in August receiving treatment for these symptoms.
The IEDCR advises frequent hand washing, adhering to cough protocols, avoiding public gatherings, and using masks when necessary to prevent further spread of the virus.