With Puducherry experiencing cold days and nights in the last few days, adequate precautionary measures against health problems, especially viral fever and respiratory infections, are the need of the hour, according to doctors.

The coastal town recorded a maximum temperature of 29.0 degree Celsius and minimum temperature of 23.1 degree Celsius on Saturday. Several persons have started to find refuge in woollen clothing, including sweaters and head covers.

According to doctors, it is important for people to avoid exposure to the cold weather. “Exposure to the cold weather can cause upper respiratory tract infections. In the present condition, it is better for people to stay indoors most of the time.

If they are going out, it is essential to cover the face, especially the ears,” T.K. Dutta, Professor and Head, Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research said.

Even more important was to keep children warm and remain indoors, especially during early morning and at night, he advised.

Those who already suffer from asthma, especially children, should take extra care, insisted R. Rajarathinam, Assistant Professor of Medicine. “If exposed to this inclement weather, such persons could develop wheezing. A lot of people have respiratory infections now caused by virus. This will get aggravated if exposed to the cold weather,” he explained, adding that protection against mosquito bites was important.

Medical Superintendent of Indira Gandhi Government General Hospital and Post Graduate Institute V. Govindaraj said stagnation of water near houses should be avoided as it would turn into mosquito-breeding sites.

“Avoid visiting crowded places and, if affected by influenza or cold, it is better to be isolated to prevent the spread of virus. Wash hands and face with warm water after coming from outside. For cold, steam inhalation will give relief,” he said.

However, there were cases of chikungunya-like viral fever with symptoms of joint pain and vomiting this season, doctors mentioned.

With regard to A(H1N1) influenza, Dr. Dutta said it was found that the incidence of the flu had increased in north India with falling temperature levels.

“There is no need for fear in south India, as the temperature levels will not fall to a great extent here as happens in north India,” he said. The Hindu