Pune: Recent abrupt changes in weather patterns have triggered a spurt in respiratory infections , allergies and general exacerbation of conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma , city doctors told TOI this week. The reports come alongside a drop in dengue and chikungunya cases in the city. "Dry weather, interspersed with hotter days and cooler nights, may be contributing to this rise in allergies," said Dr Prakash Shende, professor at Dr DY Patil Medical College.
"We've been noticing an increase in upper respiratory tract infections accompanied by a dry cough," he said, adding that fluctuating weather has also affected those with asthma and COPD. "But these are not H1N1 patients. These are cases with general viral fevers and allergic reactions.
I'm now seeing about 25-30 patients daily with upper respiratory tract infections, a significant increase compared to the days when dengue and chikungunya were prevalent," Dr Shende said. Dr Aniket Joshi, intensivist at Lokmanya Hospital, said the last one week has seen a big drop in vector-borne diseases. "I used to see 2-3 patients a day, which is now down to 2-3 a week," he said.
He added: "But we're seeing more patients with chest infections and respiratory issues. The sudden change in weather seems to be a factor." Dr Amita Kaul, head of pediatrics at Surya Mother and Child Hospital said: "We have seen a significant decrease in dengue and chikungunya among children.
We still get a few cases, but .
