- By Deeksha Gour
- Sun, 11 May 2025 01:49 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Mumbai News: Mumbai has seen a surge in cases of seasonal infections such as fever, cough, throat irritation and breathing problems following recent pre-monsoon showers. The change in weather over the past five days has led to a rise in viral and bacterial infections, according to doctors across the city.
The Hindustan Times report cited Health experts as stating that, the sudden shift from dry heat to humid conditions, along with waterlogging and stagnant water, has created a suitable environment for infections to spread—especially those affecting the respiratory system.
Between Tuesday and Thursday morning, Mumbai recorded 34 mm of rain at the Santacruz observatory. This is nearly four times the city's average rainfall for May and the highest in the month since 2021.
“This sudden increase in humidity confuses the body’s natural temperature control, making it harder to fight off infections,” explained Dr B A Chaurasia from Kokilaben Hospital. “We are now seeing more cases of upper respiratory illnesses such as viral throat infections, bronchitis, and flu.”
Municipal hospitals like KEM, Nair and Sion have all reported a 30–40 per cent rise in daily outpatient visits over the past week. Doctors say patients are mostly showing symptoms like fatigue, sore throat and persistent cough. Some people, especially the elderly and those with conditions like diabetes or asthma, have developed complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
At Sion Hospital, the rise in fever and throat infection cases has been especially sharp. “Most cases are mild and get better on their own, but a few have required hospitalisation,” said Dr Mohan Joshi, dean of the hospital.
Doctors say that humid weather weakens the body’s defences in the respiratory tract, making it easier for viruses like the flu and common cold to spread. “These viruses survive longer in moist air and spread faster in crowded places,” said Dr Gautam Bhansali from Bombay Hospital.
The BMC has asked residents to be careful, maintain hygiene, wear masks in crowded areas, and get vaccinated if eligible. Doctors also warn against self-medication and advise people to consult a physician if symptoms last more than three days.