Several doctors feel that if an individual suffers from bronchitis or asthma, it is time to double their normal dose. Citing the transition of the season, these doctors are observing an increase in cases of respiratory illness. According to them, more than 40% of the OPD cases in the medicine and pediatrics departments of the Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32, the Government Multi-specialty Hospital, Sector 16, and PGI are caused by flu and respiratory viral infections.

A pediatrician from GMSH stated that this pattern is seen at this time of the month every year due to a sudden drop in temperatures. He stated that the cases include both upper and lower respiratory infection cases, with symptoms such as sore throat, cough, and fever.

He added that even though the OPDs in hospitals are clogged with patients complaining of flu, as per the revised guidelines, anyone with flu-like symptoms is tested for COVID-19. He explained that no antibiotics are prescribed until the patient develops an infection. Another GMCH 32 medical specialist suggested that steam inhalation can help reduce nasal congestion.  

(Source: https://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/hospitals/respiratory-illness-cases-flood-chandigarh-hospitals/96571746 )