MANDI (Munish Sood)
As lakhs of devotees return to Himachal Pradesh after attending the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, the state is witnessing a surge in viral infections.
Hospitals across various districts are reporting a sharp rise in cases, with patients complaining of fever, cough, cold and body aches.
The situation has escalated to the point where hospital beds are running out and patients are being treated in overcrowded wards. Medical professionals are working overtime to manage the influx, while the state health department has stepped in with an urgent advisory to prevent further spread.
Number of patients in OPDs rises
At Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC), Shimla, doctors are seeing an unusual spike in viral cases. Many of these patients have recently returned from the Kumbh Mela and their symptoms suggest a fast-spreading viral infection.
“The number of patients in our OPD has doubled in the past week,” said a senior doctor at IGMC. “We are monitoring the situation closely and have increased our preparedness.”
A sudden rise in viral cases has been seen in Kangra district’s Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College at Tanda too. Most of the affected individuals have a travel history linked to the Maha Kumbh. The hospital has started isolating symptomatic patients to prevent further transmission.
A similar trend has been observed at the Zonal Hospital in Mandi where doctors are dealing with an increasing number of respiratory infections. Patients with fever and persistent cough are filling up the hospital’s OPD, prompting the administration to implement screening measures.
Health department issues advisory
Recognising the urgency of the situation, the Himachal Pradesh Health Department has issued an advisory urging people to take precautionary measures. The department has outlined the following steps:
- Avoid crowded places to minimise exposure to viral infections.
- Wear masks in public areas to reduce the risk of transmission.
- Practise regular hand hygiene, using soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizers.
- Seek medical help immediately if experiencing symptoms like fever, cough, or breathing difficulties.
The advisory also emphasises that individuals who have recently attended large gatherings, particularly the Maha Kumbh, should monitor their health closely and report any symptoms to their nearest healthcare center.
Government steps up preparedness
The state government has placed all district hospitals on high alert and directed them to ensure the availability of medicines, oxygen support, and essential medical equipment. Healthcare workers have been instructed to take extra precautions while dealing with infected patients.
“The next few weeks will be crucial,” said a senior health official. “We are urging the public to stay informed and follow safety guidelines. If necessary, we will implement additional measures to contain the spread.”
As the virus continues to spread across Himachal Pradesh, the authorities are preparing for all scenarios. While the health department works on containment strategies, the people of the state must remain cautious, follow preventive measures, and seek timely medical intervention if needed.
