Reshma Ravishanker 

As respiratory infections and the number of Covid-19 infections in Karnataka are on the rise, experts recommend following Covid-like protocols in schools again.

With the onset of summer and pre monsoon showers, the inpatient section at pediatric units in hospitals are reporting a higher number of cases of children with influenza and flu with symptoms typical to Covid-19 and H3N2 infections, say doctors.

Karnataka government on March 19 issued a circular stating that the Covid-19 positivity rate in the state stood at 2.77%, higher than the national average of 0.61%. Shivamogga, Kalaburagi, Uttara Kannada and Mysuru districts have the most share. Last week, the department of health and family welfare also released guidelines in the wake of increased influenza cases.

Dr Asha Benakappa, head of the Department, Pediatrics, Dr. Chandramma Dayananda Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research said that it is advisable to mask up and follow social distancing like during the pandemic phase.

Respiratory infections, viral infections that prolong 3-7 weeks probably because of rhino virus, H3N2, adeno virus (whose most identifiable symptom is severe backache) are among the most common cases that are thronging the OPD now according to Dr Benakappa.

“Even if it is not Covid, all respiratory infections spread through droplets. Wearing masks in schools and crowded places is recommended. Ensure surfaces are sanitized regularly. Follow social distancing,” she said.

Besides keeping children hydrated, she recommended that children be given symptomatic treatment and that antibiotics must be avoided as far as possible.

“Acute gastroenteritis, diarrhea, typhoid is also reported. Dengue continues to bother with several children coming with a second and third relapse the same year,” she added.

Dr Manjunath a senior Bengaluru-based pediatrician with Chiguru Children’s Clinic and Gunasheela hospital said that most out patient children came with influenza, gastroenteritis, Adenovirus infections. “children have severe nausea, diarrhoea or cold and sneezing,” Dr Manjunath said.

He recommended that children be masked, when necessary, well hydrated and be served only home cooked meals.

Meanwhile, D Shashi Kumar, general secretary, Associated Managements of Private Schools in Karnataka (KAMS) said, “There are a lot of children with cough, cold, flu and body pain. School is badly affected, especially teachers who are taking ill. Either typical Covid-19 or H3N2 symptoms are evident.  

“Yet another concern is that of Chicken Pox. Parents send their children soon after the blisters start drying out. Unfortunately, there is so little awareness that it is during this phase that there are high chances of infection spread,” he rued.

Kumar urged schools to continue following Covid-19 protocols of masking up, sanitization and keep isolation rooms  ready when need be.