Mumbai Weather Triggers Viral Surge: '15–20 Flu Cases Daily, Children Most Affected,' Say Doctors

Mumbai: The recent spell of erratic weather—marked by high humidity, sudden showers, and fluctuating temperatures—has triggered a significant spike in viral infections across the city. Health experts report a notable increase in cases of fever, cold, cough, and body ache, particularly among children and the elderly.

Hospitals Report Rise in Fever, Cold & Cough Cases

Hospitals have witnessed a surge in outpatient visits over the past week due to weather-related illnesses. Doctors say they are treating at least 15 to 20 patients a day with viral symptoms, with the majority being either young children or elderly individuals. Residents are being advised to stay hydrated, avoid sudden exposure to rain, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist beyond two days. 3

Children Under Age 3 Most Vulnerable

Dr Hemalata Arora, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine at Nanavati Max Hospital, said, “We are currently seeing a high number of flu cases, especially among children aged 2 to 3 years. There has also been a substantial increase in dengue and chikungunya cases. With the onset of the monsoon, we’re observing a significant rise in viral fevers, including influenza and other upper respiratory infections.”

Fatigue Common After Recovery, Say Experts

Many patients have also complained of delayed recovery and post-viral fatigue. Dr Badal Taori, Consultant, General Medicine at Medicover Hospitals, explained, “It’s common to feel weak or tired after recovering from a viral infection, even if it’s something as mild as a cold or cough. During illness, the body uses a lot of energy to fight the virus, which contributes to fatigue. Inflammation, dehydration, poor appetite, and disrupted sleep also play a role.”

He added that weakness can last 3–4 days after recovery, depending on the severity of the illness and the individual's overall health.

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Warm, Humid Conditions Speed Up Virus Spread

Dr Kushal Bangar, Consultant Physician and Intensivist at AIMS Hospital, Dombivli, attributed the surge to changing weather and intermittent rains. “Viruses spread rapidly, primarily through the air, but some are also food- and water-borne. Cold weather and rain often act as respiratory triggers, causing bronchospasms and allergic reactions leading to persistent cough,” he said.

Dr Bangar added that viral infections are highly contagious and tend to spread more quickly following rainfall, especially as warm, humid conditions set in.