A wave of coughing, sneezing, and sore throats has taken India by surprise this April, with doctors and citizens alike noting a sudden spike in seasonal illnesses.
According to Diaspora digital media (DDM) reports Hospitals are seeing increased outpatient visits.
Pharmacies report shortages of cough syrups.
Many school and office-goers are struggling to function through persistent cold-like symptoms.
While the flu season is usually considered a winter affair, this year’s summer months are witnessing an unexpected rise in respiratory infections and allergic reactions.
Experts attribute the surge to a mix of unusual weather patterns, high pollution levels, and lifestyle factors.
Confusing weather weakens immunity
One of the main culprits, doctors say, is the ongoing shift in daily temperatures.
The combination of hot afternoons and cooler nights is playing havoc with people’s immune responses.
“When the body experiences abrupt temperature changes, it becomes more vulnerable to infections,” says Dr. A. Mehra, a pulmonologist based in Delhi.
“These fluctuations weaken our natural defense mechanisms, leaving us more prone to viral attacks,” she adds.
The inconsistency in weather conditions, typical of early summer months, has become more severe in recent years.
Unseasonal rains, heatwaves, and dry spells are making it harder for people to adapt.
Children and older adults, who are already susceptible to seasonal flu and colds, are most at risk.
Air pollution and dust exacerbate conditions
Meanwhile, air quality continues to deteriorate in urban areas, adding fuel to the illness fire.
“High levels of particulate matter, especially in cities with ongoing construction, are triggering respiratory issues,” explains Dr. Mehra.
Dust, smog, and pollen are acting as irritants, leading to an increase in symptoms such as dry cough, sneezing, and nasal congestion.
In many parts of northern and central India, construction activity intensifies in the dry summer months.
This releases pollutants and fine particles into the atmosphere.
Combined with vehicle emissions and a decrease in air circulation, these factors create a toxic mix that burdens the lungs.
Cold habits in hot weather
Doctors also point fingers at lifestyle choices that may be contributing to this seasonal sick spell.
The widespread use of air conditioners, consumption of chilled drinks, and sudden exposure to cold environments after being in the sun are weakening immunity.
“People drink cold water immediately after coming in from a hot day or sit directly under an AC vent,” says Dr. Kavita Rao, a general practitioner in Mumbai.
“These practices may seem harmless, but they lower the body’s ability to fight infections,” she explains.
How to stay safe and recover faster
To combat this unexpected rise in illness, doctors recommend a few key precautions.
Staying hydrated with warm fluids like herbal teas or turmeric milk is essential.
Avoiding icy beverages and inhaling steam can ease respiratory discomfort.
Including vitamin-rich foods such as citrus fruits and ginger in one’s diet is also advised.
Masks continue to be effective in reducing exposure to pollutants and allergens.
This is especially important for those with pre-existing respiratory issues or asthma.
Physicians urge people to monitor symptoms closely.
“If your symptoms persist for more than five or six days, or you develop a fever or breathing difficulty, seek medical help,” adds Dr. Rao.
Allergies: the overlooked culprit
Not all sniffles are due to infections.
Doctors warn that many patients presenting with cold-like symptoms are actually suffering from allergies.
Common allergens include pollen, mold spores, and dust mites.
These are more prevalent in the warm, dry months of April and May.
“Allergies often mimic colds but are triggered by environmental exposure,” says allergist Dr. Sunil Joshi.
“We are seeing an increase in cases where the cause is not viral but allergic, often due to urban pollution or indoor irritants.”
He recommends allergy testing for patients with frequent symptoms.
Using air purifiers, cleaning household fabrics regularly, and wearing masks outdoors can help reduce exposure.
New advances in flu vaccination
Meanwhile, researchers are working on improving the flu vaccine’s effectiveness.
A recent strategy aims to better predict the evolution of flu viruses and match vaccines accordingly.
This could help prepare better for off-season outbreaks such as the one currently affecting the population.
Interestingly, studies suggest that people vaccinated for seasonal flu also developed antibodies for certain bird flu strains.
This indicates broader benefits from regular immunization.
Experts suggest that increasing vaccine uptake could be one way to prevent such unseasonal illness surges in the future.
Home remedies can help
For those preferring natural remedies, some traditional Indian kitchen staples may provide relief.
Spices like turmeric and black pepper, commonly found in curry preparations, have known anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
When combined with warm fluids, they can soothe the throat and help fight infections naturally.
A perfect storm of factors
This April’s illness surge is the result of multiple overlapping factors.
Abrupt weather changes, rising pollution, poor indoor air quality, and weakened immune systems are all playing a role.
As experts continue to study the pattern, the public is advised to remain cautious.
Stay hydrated, avoid allergens, rest well, and don’t dismiss lingering coughs and colds as mere seasonal quirks.