Various types of viral infections are being reported in large numbers from different parts of Kozhikode, while the southwest monsoon is gathering pace across the district.
Dengue fever, H1N1 (influenza), leptospirosis and the common flu are the most commonly seen viral infections. Cases of jaundice are also being reported. If the symptoms are of COVID-19 then there is some confusion in the minds of the people as well. But many shy away from getting the test done. Officially reported COVID-19 cases, however, are less in Kozhikode as compared to other districts.
On July 4, 1,911 people sought outpatient (OP) treatment for fever, while 16 were admitted. There was a suspected death due to leptospirosis. Kozhikode ranks second in terms of the total number of patients receiving treatment for fever. Malappuram tops the list.
As on July 3, there were 1,512 OP cases without hospital admissions. As on July 2, there were 1,988 such cases and eight were admitted for treatment. On July 1, there were 1,731 cases and three admissions. Six suspected cases of leptospirosis were also reported. Last week, there were days when over 2,000 people sought OP treatment.
fever clinic
Meanwhile, the health department has started fever clinics at Government General Hospital, Kozhikode and all taluk hospitals in the district. While clinics in taluk hospitals function till noon, those in general hospitals remain open till evening. It is learned that doctors have been told to start a separate fever ward if needed.
Local sources said that a large number of school students, especially those from lower primary and upper primary classes in Kuttiyadi area are demanding treatment for fever. Kayakkodi, Kuttiyadi, Kunnummal, Velam, Maruthonkara, Nittoor, Valayam and Thalikkara are some of the places from where such cases are being reported. Due to this the level of attendance in schools is decreasing.
The Mukkom report said that some doctors from regional health centers are also going on leave due to the viral infection. Many patients arriving in hospitals are seen without face masks and there is a possibility of spreading the infection among health workers. Shortage of antibiotics and other medicines was reported from some government health facilities in Kunnamangalam.