As temperatures plummet, a silent crisis is unfolding in Pune, leaving many gasping for breath. The city is witnessing a dramatic surge in respiratory illnesses and asthma attacks, and it’s not just the cold that’s to blame. But here’s where it gets controversial: could Pune be on the brink of mirroring Delhi’s notorious winter pollution crisis? Let’s dive in.
The chilly nights, coupled with rising pollution levels, have created a perfect storm for respiratory ailments. Doctors are sounding the alarm as clinics report a sharp increase in patients suffering from both infectious and non-infectious conditions. Dr. Prakash Shende, a leading physician, notes that cases of the common cold, lower respiratory tract infections, and even non-infectious diseases are on the rise. But why? Cold weather, it turns out, can cause vasospasm—a temporary narrowing of blood vessels—exacerbating cardiac and neurological issues. And this is the part most people miss: the recovery time for these illnesses has nearly tripled, with coughs lingering for up to three weeks instead of the usual four to five days.
Allergy sufferers aren’t faring any better. Asthma, sneezing, allergic rhinitis, and bronchitis cases have spiked, with viral pneumonia also on the rise. Pollution and construction dust are the unsung villains here, prolonging recovery and worsening symptoms. Dr. Shende highlights that he’s seeing 20-25 additional patients daily since the temperature drop—a staggering increase.
Children are particularly vulnerable. Dr. Siddhant Lalwani, a pediatric pulmonologist, reports a slight surge in flu and viral upper respiratory infections, with asthmatic children experiencing acute flare-ups. Here’s the kicker: Pune’s pollution levels, combined with cold air, are creating conditions eerily similar to Delhi’s winter smog. Could Pune be next in line for such a crisis? Dr. Lalwani warns that viral infections in children are lasting longer, with fevers persisting for six to seven days, often spiking to alarming levels.
Family physicians like Dr. Hillary Rodrigues echo these concerns, noting an influx of patients with upper respiratory tract infections. The early morning and late evening chill, paired with pollution, are major culprits. Simple measures like wearing warm clothes, using masks, and staying hydrated can help, but the underlying issue remains.
Dr. Pradeep Suryawanshi adds that viral infections in children have surged since temperatures dropped below 15°C, with coughs and colds becoming more prevalent. Vulnerable groups, such as preterm or low-weight babies, are at higher risk, often developing wheezing, bronchospasm, and prolonged symptoms. Dr. Sagar Lad, a neonatologist, emphasizes that children prone to allergies or asthma are experiencing severe flare-ups, including breathlessness.
But here’s the million-dollar question: Are we doing enough to combat this growing health crisis? With pollution levels rising and temperatures dropping, is Pune prepared to prevent a Delhi-like scenario? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you think the city is taking adequate measures, or is more action needed? Let’s spark a conversation before it’s too late.