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Health / Sun, 19 Jul 2026 The Times of India

Viral Cases Make Up Three in 10 OPD Visits

Bhopal: As the monsoon season sets in, hospitals are already reporting a worrying rise in viral cases even before steady rains have fully arrived. In some hospitals, nearly three in ten OPD patients are coming in with viral symptoms, suggesting an early seasonal spike in illness.According to government hospital weekly reports, AIIMS Bhopal and Hamidia Hospital, the two largest tertiary care hospitals in the state capital, recorded an average of 30% of OPD cases related to seasonal viral illnesses. At district hospitals, the figure was around 40% of all OPD cases, including cold, cough, and other respiratory issues.According to experts, this time, the virus seems to be different. The virus mainly affects the respiratory system by entering through the nose, throat and lungs, which can weaken the body’s defenses and make the illness worse.Diarrhea cases among children are also rising steadily, not just viral infections. According to pediatricians, the increase is being linked to drinking water, which is common during the rainy season.

Bhopal: As the monsoon season sets in, hospitals are already reporting a worrying rise in viral cases even before steady rains have fully arrived. In some hospitals, nearly three in ten OPD patients are coming in with viral symptoms, suggesting an early seasonal spike in illness.According to government hospital weekly reports, AIIMS Bhopal and Hamidia Hospital, the two largest tertiary care hospitals in the state capital, recorded an average of 30% of OPD cases related to seasonal viral illnesses. At district hospitals, the figure was around 40% of all OPD cases, including cold, cough, and other respiratory issues.According to experts, this time, the virus seems to be different. Unlike a usual viral infection, which often causes a mild fever of around 99–100°F, this one is bringing higher fevers of up to 103°F, along with symptoms like sore throat, cough, body aches and bronchitis after the fever goes down.In early April, experts noted a rise in post-viral bronchitis, which is inflammation of the airways that can happen after a viral infection. People who have a lingering cough, throat irritation, or chest discomfort should seek medical attention, doctors advice.Most patients coming to GMC associated Hamidia hospital are showing symptoms of ILI, or influenza-like illness. The virus mainly affects the respiratory system by entering through the nose, throat and lungs, which can weaken the body’s defenses and make the illness worse.Diarrhea cases among children are also rising steadily, not just viral infections. According to pediatricians, the increase is being linked to drinking water, which is common during the rainy season. At present, more than a dozen children are admitted to the hospital. Special attention to hygiene is especially important during this season.

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