Damoh: Viral Fever Cases on the Rise, Platelet Count Drops
Damoh: With the onset of the monsoon, cases of viral fever have seen a significant surge in the region. The Outpatient Department (OPD) of the district hospital is flooded with patients suffering from viral fever, with many exhibiting symptoms similar to those of dengue fever.
The most concerning aspect is the drop in platelet count among patients, which is a common characteristic of dengue fever.
According to Dr Prahlad Patel, Senior Physician at the district hospital, the platelet count of a normal person is around 1.50 lakh, but in patients suffering from viral fever, it has dropped to around 35,000. Moreover, the total leukocyte count, which is an indicator of infection, has also seen a decline.
The hospital is struggling to cope with the influx of patients, with around 300 patients visiting the OPD daily, out of which 100 are suspected to be suffering from viral fever. The hospital's medicine department is overcrowded, with patients spilling over to the corridors. The situation has become so dire that floor beds are being arranged for patients, and doctors are struggling to attend to each patient individually.
Experts Warn of Dengue Outbreak
Dr Patel has warned that the symptoms of viral fever are similar to those of dengue fever, and it is essential to get tested for dengue if symptoms persist. He has also advised people to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease, such as maintaining cleanliness, using mosquito nets, and avoiding stagnant water.
Precautions to be Taken
* Maintain cleanliness at home and in the workplace
* Use mosquito nets and mosquito repellents
* Avoid stagnant water and ensure proper drainage
* Drink clean water and eat nutritious food
* Get tested for dengue if symptoms persist
Fact File
* 650 OPD patients daily
* 300 patients in the medicine department's OPD
* 130 patients admitted to the hospital
* 60 male and female ward beds are occupied
Challenges Faced by the Hospital
* Overcrowding in the wards, with floor beds being arranged for patients
* Doctors are struggling to attend to each patient individually
* The hospital is facing a shortage of beds and medical staff
The rising cases of viral fever and the drop in platelet count among patients are a cause for concern. It is essential to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease and to get tested for dengue if symptoms persist. The hospital is doing its best to cope with the situation, but it needs the support of the public to contain the outbreak.
(By Aakash Tiwari, Sagar)
