Kurnool: Viral fevers are rapidly spreading across Kurnool district, putting both government and private hospitals under severe pressure.
Hospitals are overwhelmed with patients suffering from high fevers, body pains, sore throats, coughs and colds. Dengue cases are also rising, adding to the health crisis.
DMHO, Dr Santhikala, said on Thursday that the malaria wing is conducting regular fever surveys to provide medical services and support to fever patients. The survey has been ongoing since the start of the monsoon.
Private hospitals are seeing more patients than government facilities. A growing number of children are affected. Diarrhea is also increasingly reported in schools, hostels and other food facilities.
Doctors have warned against self-medication and overuse of antibiotics, which might “worsen” the conditions.
Senior physician Dr Dhanraj said viral fevers are spread across the city, with more and more patients arriving daily. Recovery usually takes 7–10 days, with most patients experiencing high fever, body aches and diarrhea. Treatment is being given based on the symptoms shown by each patient.
The recent rains have worsened the problem. Villages across the district, particularly in riverside areas, are facing poor sanitation, water stagnation and a high mosquito population, all contributing to the spread of fever.
Mandals in Adoni division such as Kosigi and Kowthalam have been especially affected. Some patients are seeking treatment locally, while others are traveling to Adoni, Bellary, Siruguppa and Raichur for medical care.
The Adoni government hospital has reported daily outpatient numbers exceeding 800-900 for the past two weeks, with around 200 patients undergoing blood tests each day. Of these, about 70-80 turn out to be suspected cases of malaria, dengue, or typhoid.
The shortage of medical staff has made the situation more difficult. The Adoni GH, which should have 70 doctors, has only 17. Six urban centers have just three doctors each, and PHCs under the Adoni division are also understaffed. Kalludevakunta PHC in Mantralayam has two doctors on maternity leave and Peddakadaburu mandal has one vacant position. Staff nurses are also in short supply, with some PHCs lacking up to ten nurses.
Areas such as Pathikonda and Aluru face similar shortages.
Medical experts urge people to maintain hygiene, avoid stagnant water, use mosquito nets, and seek prompt treatment. The district administration is being called upon to increase staffing, improve sanitation and provide better facilities to cope with the surge in fever cases.
