Kolkata sees cough-and-cold spike as winter temperature swings trigger respiratory infections

Hospitals in Kolkata are reporting a sharp rise in cough-and-cold cases as winter temperatures fluctuate, with doctors linking the spike to a renewed wave of respiratory infections. Reports said minimum temperatures have been swinging in the 13°C–15°C range, creating conditions that can stress the respiratory system and make viral spread easier in crowded indoor settings.

Clinicians cited a mix of pathogens behind the surge, including common viral causes such as rhinovirus, metapneumovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Medical teams also flagged bacterial infections in some cases, naming organisms such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus pneumoniae, which can complicate symptoms or contribute to secondary infections.

The rise is showing up both in outpatient queues and in admissions, with symptoms including persistent cough, chest congestion, fever and hoarseness. Doctors also said a small number of cases have involved swine flu and non-COVID coronaviruses, underscoring that winter respiratory illness is rarely driven by a single virus at a time.

People with chronic lung conditions such as asthma and COPD are reporting more flare-ups, with doctors noting that winter pollution can linger longer near the ground, worsening irritation and breathlessness. Children—especially teenagers—were described as being moderately affected in current hospital observations, though severity varies widely based on underlying health.

Medical advice highlighted caution against self-medicating with antibiotics unless prescribed, because many cases are viral and do not benefit from antibiotics. Doctors recommended symptom-specific treatment, warm clothing, hydration and avoidance of known allergens and triggers, especially for patients prone to wheeze or recurrent respiratory illness.

Hospitals expect the pressure to continue until weather patterns stabilise. Public health messaging during such spikes typically focuses on basic respiratory hygiene—masking when symptomatic, hand hygiene, and staying home when feverish—along with early medical review for high-risk groups such as the elderly, infants and those with chronic diseases.