Hyderabad: A seasonal flu alert in Telangana prompted the Health and Family Welfare Department to caution people as cold conditions intensified across the state. Officials warned that falling temperatures could increase the spread of respiratory infections, including seasonal flu.
On Wednesday, the Public Health and Family Welfare office issued a general health advisory. The department urged citizens to follow safety measures and seek medical care if symptoms appeared.
The Meteorological Department forecast dry weather for the next five days. It also said minimum temperatures in some areas could fall by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius below normal. Health officials said such conditions support faster flu transmission.
Seasonal flu alert in Telangana amid rising cold conditions
Officials explained that seasonal flu spreads through coughs and sneezes. They described it as an infectious illness marked by fever, cough, sore throat, body pain and fatigue. People with mild symptoms should stay home, rest and drink fluids. Most recover within a week.
However, doctors warned that pregnant women, children below five years, people above 65 years and those with chronic diseases face a higher risk. They advised these groups to visit nearby health centres if a fever or a cough developed.
Health officials listed warning signs that need urgent care. These include high fever, breathing difficulty, bluish lips or skin, blood in sputum and sudden behaviour changes. In such cases, patients should visit government hospitals immediately. The department also asked people to use the 108 ambulance services during emergencies.
To prevent flu, officials advised covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing. They stressed frequent handwashing with soap and avoiding crowded places when sick. Doctors also recommended nutritious food and proper sleep. They warned against handshakes, large gatherings and self-medication.
District Health Officer Dr B Ravindranayak said all government health centres kept special beds and essential medicines ready to handle seasonal flu cases.