Influenza, leptospirosis emerge as major killers this season in Keralam
Kerala is facing a significant health crisis as influenza and leptospirosis have caused nearly 300 deaths this season. Public health experts are urging the government to prioritize vaccination for the elderly and improve hospital hygiene to curb the spread.
Why it matters
The surge in infectious diseases highlights the vulnerability of public health systems to climate-driven weather patterns and the need for better preventative infrastructure.
Influenza and leptospirosis have emerged as major killers this season in Keralam, with both diseases together claiming close to 300 lives in the State.
As on September 15, the State has reported 10,244 cases of influenza — which includes primarily A H1N1, A H2N3 and Influenza B — and 109 deaths due to the infection, a sharp rise when compared to previous years. Confirmed leptospirosis deaths in the State touched 100 as on September 15, apart from 78 probable leptospirosis deaths. However, health officials maintain that the count is less when compared to previous years.
Influenza cases have seen a steady rise across the nation this year and almost all States have reported a sharp spike in influenza A (H1N1) cases. Unpredictable weather patterns, high temperature and humidity and possible mutations in seasonal flu viruses could have contributed to this sharp spike in cases.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in