Viral Fever in Delhi: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

A 2022 survey found that 8 in 10 households in Delhi-NCR had at least one family member with viral fever symptoms. This is a common situation in Delhi, especially during the change in season. Runny nose, cough, headache, and body aches are some common symptoms of viral fever in Delhi.

As of February 2025, Delhi-NCR is experiencing a notable surge in flu cases. High pollution levels during this period exacerbate respiratory issues, contributing to the rise in flu cases. Several viruses cause viral fevers, which can range from mild to severe. This article will review the current viral fever in Delhi, as well as its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive techniques. 

Before getting ahead, let’s debunk some myths of Viral Fever. 

Myth	Fact
Viral fever always requires antibiotics.	Antibiotics are ineffective against viral fevers as viruses cause them. Antibiotics are only prescribed if a secondary bacterial infection develops.
Viral fever isn't contagious.	Viral infections, like the common cold and influenza, are highly contagious and spread through respiratory droplets or vectors like mosquitoes.
High fever is dangerous and must be suppressed immediately.	A high fever requires medical attention, while a moderate fever helps the immune system combat the virus.
Drinking cold water can worsen viral fever.	Drinking cold water doesn’t worsen viral fever; cold and warm fluids are acceptable, depending on your comfort level.
Viral fever only occurs in adults.	Viral fever affects people of all age groups, including children, because of their developing immune systems.

What is Viral Fever? 

Viral fever occurs when the body detects the presence of a virus and triggers your immune system’s response by raising the body temperature. It can develop differently depending on the type of virus and the system it affects. 

7 Causes of Viral Fever in Delhi 

The cause of viral fever depends on the type of virus. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the common causes of viral fever in Delhi. 

• Respiratory Viruses: Influenza, Rhinovirus, and Coronavirus are three major respiratory viruses. Influenza virus causes seasonal flu with cough, body aches, and fever. Coronavirus may lead to severe symptoms, like loss of taste and smell. Rhinovirus can cause a common cold, often accompanied by mild fever. 
• Mosquito-Borne Viruses: The Zika and Chikungunya viruses are mosquito-borne. Chikungunya may cause severe joint pain and fever. The Zika virus may also cause fevers, which are associated with miscarriages in pregnant women. Aedes mosquitoes transmit dengue and cause pain and a high fever. 
• Gastrointestinal Viruses: Rotavirus and Norovirus are two viral causes of gastrointestinal viruses. Rotavirus is common in children and can cause fever and diarrhea. Norovirus is highly contagious and can cause vomiting, fever, and stomach pain. 
• Blood-borne Viruses: HIV and Hepatitis viruses are common causes of viral fever in Delhi. Hepatitis viruses can cause hepatitis A, B, and C, which can cause fever and liver inflammation. HIV is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause fever. 
• Exanthematic Viruses: Measles and rubella may cause high and mild fever. 
• Mode of Transmission: Vector transmission, direct contact, and airborne transmission are common ways viral fevers spread.
• Hemorrhagic Viral Fever: Yellow fever, severe dengue, and Ebola are some causes of hemorrhagic viral fever. In advanced stages, you may experience bleeding gums, high fever, blood in the stool, and shock. 

Also, read: Viral Fever Symptoms

22 Symptoms of Viral Fever in Delhi 

Depending on the virus, viral fever produces several symptoms in the body. The following are some of the symptoms of viral fever in Delhi. 

1. Fatigue and Weakness 
2. Cough 
3. Sore Throat 
4. Runny Nose 
5. Congestion 
6. High Fever 
7. Body Aches 
8. Headache 
9. Nausea and vomiting 
10. Diarrhea 
11. Loss of Smell and Taste 
12. Red Eye
13. Skin Rashes

Other Severe Signs and Symptoms of Viral Fever: 

1. Severe headache
2. Difficulty breathing 
3. Chest pain 
4. Frequent vomiting 
5. Stiff Neck
6. Bruising or Blood in Stool 
7. Altered mental state 
8. Confusion 
9. Seizures or Convulsions 

What’s the Duration of Viral Fever? 

The duration of viral fever depends on the cause of the virus. 

• Mild Cases 

Symptoms, such as fatigue and mild fever, typically last a few days. However, dehydration and rest.. 

• Mode, they can resolve quickly. te Cases 

Symptoms, such as body aches and fever, usually last 7 to 10 days. They are most common in infections like dengue and influenza. 

• Severe Cases 

The duration of severe viral fever cases may exceed two weeks. Viruses like COVID-19 and those causing hemorrhagic fever may lead to prolonged symptoms.

What is the Difference Between Viral Fever and Bacterial Fever? 

Viral and bacterial fevers have different symptoms and require different treatments. It is important to understand the difference between the two. 

Aspect	Bacterial Fever	Viral Fever
Onset	Gradual or localized	Sudden
Symptoms	Pain, swelling, pus formation	Fatigue, body aches, rashes
Duration	Often persists longer without antibiotics	3-7 days
Common Infections	Strep throat Lyme disease C. diff (Clostridioides difficile) Salmonella and Campylobacter Impetigo, boils, and cellulitis  E. coli Chlamydia and gonorrhea  Pneumococcal disease Bacterial vaginosis	Common cold Flu COVID Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) Parainfluenza
Blood Test Results	High white blood cell count	Low or normal white blood cell count

Who is at a High Risk of Viral Fever? 

The flu in Delhi can affect anyone. However, some people should be more careful with it. These include: 

• Infants and young children 
• Older adults 
• People with a weak immune system. 
• People who do not wash their hands frequently. 
• Healthcare workers. 
• People who live in crowded areas. 

4 Major Complications of Viral Fever in Delhi 

Viral fever usually is self-limiting. However, some complications may arise.

1. Dehydration—Excessive sweating during the current viral fever in Delhi can cause dehydration. Drinking warm water frequently can help. 
2. Secondary infections may weaken the immune system, leading to bacterial co-infection. 
3. Organ Damage—Some viral fevers, such as dengue and viral hepatitis, may affect organs like the liver and kidneys. 
4. Neurological Issues- May cause seizures and encephalitis (brain inflammation). 

Diagnosis of Viral Fever 

Diagnosing current viral fever in Delhi combines clinical evaluation, medical history, and laboratory tests. This helps identify the cause and distinguish viral fever from other infections.

• Clinical Examination 

Clinical examination is the first step towards diagnosis and treatment of viral fever. A healthcare professional looks at symptoms, such as body aches, fever, and fatigue, to find the root cause. They may also: 

1. Check for specific signs and symptoms of viral fever. 
2. Assess respiratory symptoms like cough and nasal congestion to evaluate your health. 
3. Look for dehydration and other complications. 

• Medical History 

A healthcare professional may analyze your detailed medical history to find the source of the fever. They may analyze factors like recent travel, exposure to infected people, vaccination history, and existing health condition. 

• Laboratory Tests

Your doctor may recommend some laboratory tests for further diagnosis and confirmation. They may order the following laboratory tests. 

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test 
2. C Reactive Protein (CRP) Test 
3. Dengue Antigen Test by ELISA 
4. Blood Culture Test 
5. Liver Function Test 
6. Kidney Function Test

• Imaging Tests 

A healthcare professional may perform X-rays or ultrasounds for further analysis. These imaging tests can assess lung involvement or organ damage. 

Also, read https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/fever/blood-tests-for-fever-check-the-complete-list-and-book-now/ 

When to Consult a Doctor? 

If the fever persists for more than 3 or 5 days or you experience symptoms like difficulty breathing or confusion, seek medical consultation

6 Tips to Prevent the Viral Fever in Delhi 

Viral fever can be prevented by combining hygiene, lifestyle practices, and vaccination. 

1. Get Vaccinated: Take the annual flu shot, which can significantly reduce the severity and risk of fever.
2. Maintain Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and wear masks in crowded places to avoid infections.
3. Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet: A well-balanced, nutritious diet can boost immunity. Drink 3-4 litres of water daily to hydrate yourself.
4.  Practice Safe Eating: Drink clean, filtered water and avoid contaminated food. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating. 
5. Limit Going to Mosquito: Prone Areas: Use mosquito nets and insect repellents. Also, keep on changing stagnant water to reduce mosquito breeding. 
6. Avoid Self-Medications: Consult a doctor for proper treatment and medications, and avoid taking any over-the-counter medication. 

Viral Fever Treatment 

The treatment of viral fever depends on the severity of fever, your symptoms, and medical history. Your doctor may recommend medications, such as decongestants, analgesics, and antipyretics, as the treatment option for viral fever. In addition to medications, some simple home strategies can help manage viral fever.

1. Drink plenty of fluids, such as electrolyte solutions or coconut water. It can help replenish lost fluids and maintain hydration. 
2. Proper rest is important for recovery. It allows your body to conserve energy to fight the infection. 
3. Instead of heavy foods, opt for easily digestible foods, such as boiled vegetables and fruits, to ensure your body gets essential nutrients without burdening digestion. 

5 Home Remedies for Viral Fever

Did you know Delhi viral fever symptoms can also be treated with home remedies? These remedies work effectively alongside medical treatment and provide natural relief from viral fever symptoms. They are easy to implement and help in fast recovery.

• Ginger and Honey Tea 

A warm cup of ginger and honey tea can relieve a sore throat and congestion. Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties benefit the overall body. 

To prepare: 

Boil water in a pan, add fresh ginger and a teaspoon of honey, let it boil for a few minutes, and then drink it. 

• Warm Compress 

Apply a warm compress to the back, forehead, and joints. This can help reduce body aches and chills. It also relaxes muscles and provides comfort during fever and fatigue. 

• Steam Inhalation 

Steam can help clear nasal passages and alleviate congestion. It effectively treats respiratory symptoms such as blocked sinuses and a runny nose. 

• Hydration 

Flu in Delhi can cause dehydration, so staying hydrated is crucial. During viral fever, drink plenty of fluids, including herbal tea, clear soups, and water. 

• Rest and Relax 

Rest allows your body to focus more on recovery. Avoid physical exercise and create a comfortable atmosphere for relaxation. 

These home remedies can enhance your overall recovery period. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical care and get yourself tested. Redcliffe Labs is India’s leading diagnostic service provider, offering diagnostic tests at an affordable price and with a home sample collection. You can book a test from their website or mobile app, which is available on both the App Store and the Play Store. Follow the steps below to book a test from Redcliffe Labs. 

• Visit www.redcliffelabs.com or download the mobile app. 
• Search for the test you need. 
• Click on ‘Book Now’. 
• Fill out required details: name, preferred time slot, address, and contact information. 
• Make the payment. 
• You will receive a confirmation via SMS or WhatsApp. 
• A phlebotomist will visit your home for the sample collection. 

The Bottom Line 

Viral fever is common in Delhi during the seasonal change. It requires proper management, which can be achieved by understanding its symptoms and causes. While most viral fevers resolve independently, some may require medical intervention. Seek medical care and undergo regular testing. Regular checkups can help prevent major complications. 

FAQs 

Ques1 How can viral fever be cured in Delhi? 

Ans1 The symptoms of viral fever can be cured with antipyretic medications, rest, and hydration. Additionally, consuming a nutritious and easily digestible diet can help in recovery. Some severe cases may require medical intervention. 

Ques2 Is viral fever contagious? 

Ans2 Yes, viral fever can spread easily through cough, sneeze, and from contaminated water, food, or mosquito bites. Take preventive measures like vaccination and hygiene practices to prevent its spread. 

Ques3 Can viral fever persist for 7-10 days? 

Ans3 Yes, viral fever can last for 7-10 days, especially in moderate-to-severe infections like dengue and influenza. If your fever persists more than 10 days, consult a healthcare professional to rule out secondary infections. 

Ques4 What are the viral fever symptoms in adults? 

Ans4 An adult can have symptoms like high fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, sore throat, and headache. Besides, an adult may feel gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and diarrhea. 

Ques5 How to manage viral fever rashes? 

Ans5 You can manage viral fever rash by keeping your skin clean and dry and avoiding scratching to prevent infections. Additionally, consult a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.