Monsoon Update: Chikungunya cases surge in Juhu hospitals

Amid rising monsoon-related illnesses, doctors have also advised precautions especially for those with comorbidities.

Date: August 7, 2024

Both the public and private doctors in Juhu have noted a significant rise in chikungunya cases. However, many cases may not be reflected in civic data.

According to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) data for July, there were only 25 reported cases of chikungunya.

An infectious disease expert from Nanavati Hospital stated that they have seen more families coming in with chikungunya in the past two weeks. It is the most common illness after dengue, typhoid and flu. There have been at least 25 cases of chikungunya in just two weeks at her hospital.

Subsequently, an interesting trend was noted by a doctor from the civic-run Cooper Hospital. As per reports, Chikungunya appears to be more common among residents of high-rise buildings. The doctors perform an IgM test if the cases are severe, as civic hospitals do not perform PCR tests.

PCR tests for chikungunya can cost up to Rs 3,000, and most tests are conducted at private facilities. IgM only becomes positive after four to five days of fever, so doctors often test for other potentially fatal ailments to ensure a person is not at risk, experts noted.

Apart from this, a 65-year-old H1N1 patient with a history of chemotherapy died at Bandra’s Holy Family hospital with the disease. Besides, at least 30 patients a day are being observed at the OPD for monsoon-related illness in this hospital, the doctor said.

It is pertinent to note that in light of increasing monsoon-related illnesses, doctors have also advised precautions for those with comorbidities.