Most of the current cases are viral in nature, and antibiotics are not only ineffective but also contribute to antibiotic resistance, a growing public health concern.
Published Aug 21, 2025 | 3:01 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 21, 2025 | 3:01 PM
Synopsis: Bengaluru’s erratic weather of alternating sunshine, heavy rain, strong winds and night-time chill has led to a sharp rise in seasonal illnesses, including viral fevers, respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, skin conditions and even chickenpox. Doctors advise against self-medication, particularly with antibiotics, and instead emphasise preventive measures such as maintaining hygiene, wearing dry clothes, eating nutritious food and seeking timely medical care.
Sunshine in the morning, heavy rains by evening, sudden gusty winds, and a biting chill at night… Bengaluru’s weather over the past few days has been nothing short of unpredictable.
But this dramatic swing in conditions is not just inconveniencing residents, it is also driving up cases of seasonal illnesses across the city.
“With rains lashing the city continuously, the threat of viral fever is well and truly back. Cold, cough, headache and chills are the symptoms. Please do not hesitate to receive antiviral treatment to cure yourself if such symptoms show up,” said Dr Sai Sravani Kesiraju, Consultant General Physician, Internal Medicine, Kinder Hospitals, Bengaluru.
At Apollo Clinics, the rush of patients has already begun. “Since the past few days we have witnessed more than 40–60 patients visiting the clinic. Which is almost a 15 percent increase in the number of cases reported around this time,” Dr Priyadharshini, Consultant Internal Medicine, Apollo One, Bengaluru, told South First.
She explained that typhoid, diarrhoea, stomach infections, and skin-related ailments are the most common complaints.
“The heavy rains and changing weather conditions are leading to a rise in monsoon-related health diseases. Monsoon is a beautiful season, but it demands extra caution for your health,” she said.
“Simple preventive steps can protect you and your family from seasonal infections. Prioritise hygiene, boost immunity, and don’t ignore early symptoms. Stay safe, stay dry, and enjoy the rains responsibly.”
The trend is similar at Aster Whitefield Hospital. Dr Suchismitha Rajamanya, Lead Consultant and HOD Internal Medicine, noted:
“With the change in weather, we are witnessing a rise in respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. We have also seen a relative increase in the number of chickenpox cases. All age groups are affected, though children and the elderly who have lower immunity seem to be hit the most.”
Meanwhile, dermatologists warn that the mix of sweat, damp clothes, and prolonged humidity is fuelling fungal and bacterial infections in Bengaluru. Common complaints include ringworm, athlete’s foot, itching, boils and rashes.
“People often stay in wet or sweaty clothes after being caught in the rain, or undergarments do not dry up quickly, which creates a breeding ground for fungal infections,” Dr Abhiram R, Dermatologist at iSkin Clinic, told South First.
“Drying your feet, armpits, and skin folds thoroughly and wearing clean cotton clothes can go a long way in prevention.”
Physicians are also cautioning Bengalureans not to rush to antibiotics at the first sign of fever or cold. Most of the current cases are viral in nature, and antibiotics are not only ineffective but also contribute to antibiotic resistance, a growing public health concern.
“Self medicating with antibiotics can do more harm than good. Patients should consult a doctor for the right diagnosis and treatment instead of buying medicines over the counter,” doctors stressed.
Doctors suggest these steps to reduce the risk of infections this monsoon:
(Edited by Dese Gowda)
