Visakhapatnam is experiencing a high spike in viral fevers, prompting concerns among health experts despite the recent heavy rains. The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has been carefully monitoring the issue, with the Public Health Department sending alerts about the rising number of cases.

According to local media sources, the continuing rainy season has played a key role in the increase, with fever, cough, sore throat, and runny nose being the most common symptoms. Dr Naresh Kumar, GVMC's Chief Medical Officer, encouraged the public to take appropriate safeguards. "It is crucial for infected individuals to isolate themselves from crowded places, offices, and public gatherings," he told me. Dr Kumar emphasised the virus's strong transmissibility, which spreads via droplets from coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces.

To help manage the crisis, Dr Jagadeshwara Rao, Officer of the Visakhapatnam District Medical & Health Department, encouraged locals to take advantage of the free medical testing available at the city's urban primary health centres. "The government is conducting a total of 72 medical tests free of charge across 66 UPHCs in the city," Dr Rao stated, stressing that despite the availability of these services, many residents continue to prefer government-run King George Hospital (KGH) or private hospitals for testing and medications. "We are making efforts to raise awareness about the free services through FM radio and our staff," according to him.

While dengue incidence has been increasing, with 332 documented cases as of August 26, 2024, Dr. Rao reminded the public that there is no immediate cause for concern. There have also been 106 cases of malaria, with no reports of chikungunya. "No deaths have been recorded, but officials remain cautious due to the continuous rainfall," the doctor said.

63 primary healthcare facilities throughout the city have set up special medical camps to combat the health problem. Dr Rao urged people not to panic and to seek medical assistance immediately. He added, "Our camps are fully equipped to handle the influx of cases."

Rain-related incidents have exacerbated the situation in locations such as Anandapuram mandal, where knee-deep water has damaged vehicles and caused the collapse of a school wall. Majji Venkata Rao, the leader of the YSRCP, and MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao visited the devastated districts, and are planning numerous medical camps.

As the local health officials are working around the clock to deal with the problem, the health department has urged residents to take precautions, including drinking boiled water, to reduce risks of waterborne diseases.