An “unusual” fever is affecting many people in the city. It lasts for 4-5 days, with temperatures fluctuating between 99 and 102 degrees. On the 4th or 5th day, patients develop a full-body rash, heavy eyes, headaches, and sleeplessness.
Despite these symptoms, patients are testing negative for common culprits like dengue, chikungunya, malaria, and other routine infections. The rash is pink spots that appear throughout the body and vanish within just two days.
On the 5th or 6th day, as rashes start disappearing, patients experience severe joint pain. Medical reports show some interesting trends. While the white blood cell (WBC) counts exhibit a slight drop, platelet levels remain within the normal range.
Red blood cell (RBC) counts tend to increase. Furthermore, the elevated levels of ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein) indicate the presence of inflammatory markers.Doctors believe that this could be a new viral fever or influenza strain.
They advise patients to repeat PCR tests (molecular tests) if the initial screenings come negative for common infections.
What should patients do?
If you are experiencing these symptoms, please see a doctor to get tested for common infections. If your tests are negative, your doctor may recommend repeating the tests or testing for a wider spectrum of conditions.
In the meantime, you can relieve your symptoms by taking over-the-counter fever reducers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. You can also try getting plenty of rest and drinking fluids to stay hydrated.
