Falling temperatures and polluted air drive up respiratory illnesses in Valley

As temperatures begin to drop and the post-monsoon dry season sets in, hospitals in the Kathmandu Valley have begun reporting an increase in patients with respiratory illnesses, influenza, coughs and fever. Doctors warn that respiratory illnesses could rise further after next week’s Tihar festival as falling temperatures and increasing air pollution aggravate respiratory problems, while festival gatherings also create opportunities for respiratory viruses to spread.

“Of the total number of patients seeking care in our hospital these days, around 50 percent are those suffering from respiratory illnesses, colds, coughs, and fever,” said Dr Raju Pangeni, a consultant pulmonary and critical care physician at Hams Hospital. “Some patients also seek care only after they become serious at home.

We have to admit such patients at the intensive care unit upon arrival.” Other hospitals in the Valley are reporting a similar increase in patients with respiratory illnesses. Doctors say seasonal influenza is highly contagious and spreads easily.