Viral Fever Cases Surge in Jamshedpur, OPD Footfall Up 30%

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, June 3: Amid a rise in COVID-19 cases nationwide, Jamshedpur is witnessing a concerning spike in viral fever cases, with outpatient departments (OPDs) reporting a 30% increase in patient footfall. Children and the elderly are the most affected, as health experts warn of overlapping symptoms between seasonal viral infections and COVID-19.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), daily COVID-19 cases have surged by 20% nationally over the past fortnight. In Jamshedpur, viral fever cases at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) Medical College Hospital have notably risen. On Monday alone, 1,017 patients were seen in the OPD, with the medicine department recording the highest number of cases.

Common symptoms include high fever, sore throat, fatigue, cough, body aches and loss of taste or smell — making it difficult to differentiate between COVID-19 and common viral infections. Physicians caution against self-medication. “Taking paracetamol without proper diagnosis may worsen the situation,” warned Dr. Balram Jha, a local physician.

No confirmed COVID-19 cases have yet been reported in East Singhbhum district, but the administration isn’t taking chances. Civil Surgeon Dr. Sahir Pal said all hospitals have been instructed to send samples of suspected patients and maintain vigilance. “Anyone wanting to get tested can provide samples at the Sakchi Surveillance Department,” he added.

Doctors advise residents to seek prompt medical attention if symptoms persist beyond two to three days. With the monsoon approaching, maintaining hygiene and taking precautions has become more critical than ever.