Kolkata is facing an unexpected health challenge. Cases of Influenza B, a virus typically more prevalent during the monsoon and colder months, are still making their presence felt across the city. Health experts are puzzled by the persistence of these infections, especially considering the seasonal shift.
Currently, hospitals such as the Institute of Child Health (ICH) and Manipal Mukundapur are treating several children for Influenza B infections, with some requiring intensive care. At ICH, three children are undergoing treatment in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), one of whom is on a ventilator. The persistence of such cases is unusual, given that the virus usually peaks in the colder, rainier months. Prabhas Prasun Giri, in charge of the PICU at ICH, expressed his concern over the ongoing cases, noting that it is uncommon for influenza B to continue spreading during the summer heat.
Influenza B, a highly contagious virus, spreads through respiratory droplets from an infected person. While many infected individuals only experience mild symptoms similar to a common cold, the virus can lead to severe complications, particularly for children and older adults with weakened immune systems. According to microbiologist Bhaskar Narayan Chaudhuri of Peerless Hospital, the virus causes upper respiratory infections and is easily transmissible, even though it typically sees a spike in colder months. In March, nine cases of Influenza B were detected, and so far, two new cases have been reported in the current month. The majority of the cases have involved children. For most, the symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. In severe instances, the virus can escalate to pneumonia, bronchitis, or even respiratory failure, requiring hospitalisation.
The rise in cases is being attributed to a mix of factors, one of which is increased awareness following the Covid-19 pandemic. As people have become more vigilant about health and testing, doctors believe that the numbers of reported cases may reflect a greater willingness to seek medical attention. “In the past, people rarely came forward for testing. But now, post-Covid, there’s more awareness about the importance of testing for viral infections,” said molecular pathologist Abhirup Sarkar, director of Suraksha Diagnostics.
However, what remains puzzling to health professionals is the prolonged nature of the symptoms in many cases. While influenza B is usually manageable and vaccine-preventable, the duration of illness in some children is far longer than expected. Notably, unlike previous outbreaks where younger children were most affected, this time, older children seem to be more vulnerable. Health experts suggest that school-going children, who are in constant contact with peers, are especially prone to the spread of the virus.
In response to these cases, health officials are urging the public to take necessary precautions such as maintaining hand hygiene, wearing masks, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. While the number of cases is not yet alarming, experts stress the importance of continued vigilance. “The number of cases is not high, and there’s no need to panic at this stage. However, we are monitoring the situation closely to ensure that we can take action swiftly if there’s a spike,” said a senior health official.
As the city continues to battle this unseasonal surge in Influenza B cases, Kolkata’s healthcare system remains under pressure to manage the situation. With school children being a primary concern, authorities will need to step up efforts to contain the spread of the virus and ensure public safety as the summer months progress.
Kolkata Faces Persistent Influenza B Cases Amid Heatwave
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