There has been a surge in flu cases this year. It seems that the numbers are only going to increase. Climate change and global warming are believed to have a significant impact on people’s health. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Vidhe Sharma, MD, Physician, Ruby Hall Clinic, Hinjewadi, explained how global warming and the increase in the number of flu cases are linked to several factors.
Climate Change and Seasonal Patterns:
Global warming changes temperature and rainfall patterns, which can affect the timing and duration of seasons. This may change the timing and intensity of flu seasons, potentially extending or changing the time when the flu virus is active. This makes people more susceptible to illness.
Temperature and Virus Survival:
Warmer temperatures can cause some viruses, including the influenza virus, to survive longer outside the host. This may increase the likelihood of spreading infection in certain environments.
Also read: Rising temperatures and longer monsoons make dengue a persistent threat in South Asia; tips to tackle this growing threat
Changes in Human Behaviour:
Changes in climate can also affect human behaviour, such as spending more time indoors or changes in migration patterns, which can affect the spread of infectious diseases such as flu.
Ecology and Animal Factors:
Climate change affects ecosystems and can alter animal habitats and behaviour. It can affect the spread and transmission of zoonotic diseases (those that spread from animals to humans), some of which can include influenza viruses, and these can severely affect humans.
Also read: Zika virus prevention: Zika vs dengue diagnosis challenges and tips to prevent mosquito bites
Health Impacts and Vulnerability:
Climate change can increase health vulnerabilities in populations, making them more susceptible to infections such as flu due to stress, malnutrition, or displacement caused by extreme weather events.
“Overall, while the direct link between global warming and flu cases is complex and multidimensional, these factors illustrate how climate change may contribute to changes in disease patterns, including influenza incidence,” said Dr. Vidhe Sharma.
Also Read: What is Zika virus and how does it affect your body?
