Why flu season is seeing a jump in dengue, malaria cases this year

As the weather shifts, many people start to associate fever with the common cold or seasonal flu. However, this season, fevers might not be that easy to avoid given they are triggering other illnesses.
A dangerous cocktail of viruses, bacteria, and parasites, such as dengue, malaria, chikungunya and even Covid-19 are peaking, complicating what many assume to be ordinary respiratory illnesses like common caused by rhinovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus.
Dr Neha Rastogi Panda, Consultant Infectious Diseases at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, explained the current situation, saying, “Hospitals are seeing a significant surge in patients with a variety of viral and bacterial infections. While flu season typically brings an uptick in respiratory illnesses, this year we are observing a broader range of diseases including Covid-19, dengue, malaria, and chikungunya.”
The rise in these cases is due to seasonal changes that facilitate the breeding of mosquitoes like the Aedes mosquitoes spreading dengue and malaria, and fluctuating immunity levels following the Covid-19 pandemic.

A dangerous cocktail of viruses, bacteria, and parasites, such as dengue, malaria, chikungunya and even Covid-19 are peaking. (Photo: Getty Images)

Given this surge in infections, it’s vital to recognise that not all fevers are caused by the common cold. The symptoms of various diseases often overlap, making accurate diagnosis crucial.
Dr Panda added, “With overlapping symptoms, diagnostics become of utmost importance. Avoiding self-medication is mandatory, as over-the-counter painkillers can be counterproductive in many of these illnesses. Early identification is necessary for both the individual and family contacts.”
A BROADER RANGE OF INFECTIONS
This season, many illnesses are circulating at once. Dengue, malaria, chikungunya, and viral respiratory infections like the flu and Covid-19 are all on the rise, presenting with similar early symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches.
However, each disease also has its own specific signs that can help doctors make a proper diagnosis.
Dr Mahua Kapoor Dasgupta, Director of Medical Affairs (Infectious Diseases) at HaystackAnalytics, said, “The seasonal change brings a rise in infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, many of which present with similar symptoms like fever, headache, malaise, and general weakness.”

This season, many illnesses are circulating at once. (Photo: Getty Images)

She explained how different infections manifest distinct symptoms. “For instance, viral upper respiratory infections often come with a runny nose and conjunctivitis, while dengue presents with retro-orbital pain, rash, and severe ‘bone-breaking’ pain—also seen in chikungunya,” she said.
TIMELY DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
Doctors advised that accurate and prompt diagnosis are essential, as the treatment for these diseases varies widely.
“The choice of treatment needs to be tailored according to the cause. Bacterial infections require antibacterial antibiotics, while viral infections generally need supportive therapy like rest, fluids, and antipyretics. Dengue requires close monitoring of platelet counts, and malaria is treated with antimalarials and fluid management,” said Dr Dasgupta.
One common mistake during this season is the misuse of antibiotics, the expert cautioned.

One common mistake during this season is the misuse of antibiotics, the expert cautioned. (Photo: Getty Images)

Since not all fevers are bacterial, overprescribing antibiotics for viral infections can lead to resistance and delayed treatment for the real cause of the illness.
“If infections are not diagnosed correctly and early, it can lead to the misuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics or, worse, life-threatening complications from delayed treatment,” Dr Dasgupta warned.
If you experience a persistent fever or other symptoms, it’s critical to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Diagnostic tests are available to help pinpoint the exact cause of the illness. “Selecting the appropriate diagnostic test can secure an accurate diagnosis, enabling the doctor to begin the specific treatment needed,” said Dr Dasgupta.
Currently, tests such as the NS1 antigen, IgM and IgG antibody tests for dengue, and the malaria antigen test with microscopy for malaria are widely used.
Multiplex PCR assays can also detect multiple organisms in a single test, offering a faster and more comprehensive diagnosis.
As fevers increase during this time of year, don’t assume it’s just the common cold. Diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya are prevalent, and accurate diagnosis is essential for proper treatment. As Dr Panda stressed, “Early diagnosis can significantly improve outcomes.”