Adopt safe approach to play Holi and prevent virus spike in Nagpur, say doctors

NAGPUR: The current spike in viral infections due to influenza and adenovirus is likely to recede in the next few days as daytime temperatures increase, doctors said. However, cases are still coming in good numbers, especially among senior citizens.
With the Holi festival around the corner, people may interact closely and the virus may get a new lease. Doctors say while there is no need to curtail the festive enthusiasm, a careful approach will be enough to stay safe and keep the vulnerable population safe from the viral infection.

"The viral fever cases had flooded our OPDs during mid-February. Some elderly people had complications but the majority of them recovered after symptomatic treatment," said a senior doctor from GMCH. "But, the number has started declining in March," the doctor added.
Adenovirus is highly contagious and its circulation usually goes up during late winter. As temperatures are rising now, the viral infection cases is likely to go down.
This year's Holi is going to be the first full-fledged celebration without any threat of Covid. So, people must be planning large-scale celebrations. "Though the current viral spread is not that serious, the elderly and those who already have illnesses must be cautious," said doctors.
"Large Holi gatherings and going house to house increase the risk of infection. Adenovirus spreads very fast through water. Those who are on immune-suppressing medication and those who already have symptoms like cough, cold, body ache and mild fever should better stay aloof from the celebrations. This will ensure health for others," said Dr Nitin Shinde, infectious disease specialist.
The present infections are mostly self-limited. Generally, it takes five-six days to recover from such viral infections. But, this time, the post-recovery fatigue period is longer. Repeated infection cases are also reported. So, it's better to take precautions and not to lose many working days after festivity due to illness.
Paediatrician Dr Vijay Dhote said that children can play Holi, but it would be better to keep it dry. "Not because of the present viral spike, but we advice children to play dry Holi which is healthy. Adenovirus classically causes conjunctivitis, which could create a problem during examination period which will start after Holi," said Dr Dhote.
For those who want to use water in Holi, he advised frequent hand and face wash, organic colours, and maintaining personal hygiene.