Lucknow Hospitals Overwhelmed by 40% Surge in Flu Cases

Lucknow Hospitals Overwhelmed by 40% Surge in Flu Cases
Lucknow is grappling with a significant 40% increase in flu-like illnesses, placing immense pressure on government hospitals. Outpatient departments (OPDs) are now handling nearly 1,000 patients daily, up from 650–700, with 60–80 new admissions each day. Common symptoms include high fever, throat infections, and viral ailments, attributed to seasonal changes, heightened viral and bacterial activity, and consumption of contaminated food and water. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.
At Balrampur Hospital, OPD visits have risen from 200 to over 300 daily, and emergency admissions have doubled. SPM Civil Hospital and Lokbandhu Hospital also report sharp increases in both OPD footfall and admissions. While dengue, malaria, and chikungunya cases are not prevalent, doctors caution against self-medication with antibiotics. Smaller hospitals such as Thakurganj Joint Hospital, Rani Laxmibai, Bhaurao Deoras, and BKT’s Ramsagar Mishra Joint Hospital have also seen rising patient numbers.
Health experts recommend preventive actions such as maintaining hygiene, drinking safe water, avoiding street food, and getting annual flu vaccinations, especially for vulnerable groups. Vaccination is emphasized as a key step in reducing the risk of severe infection during flu season.