HealthAdmin9/26/2025
New Delhi, September 26, 2025: As India grapples with recurrent seasonal fevers, particularly the alarming resurgence of dengue, medical experts and nutritionists are sounding the alarm against dangerous misconceptions and practices. A recent public awareness talk series, brought together eminent panellists who collectively highlighted the critical need for early detection, responsible medical care, and robust immune support, and prudent use of antibiotic to combat these widespread health challenges.
Padma Shri Dr. Mohsin Wali, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, highlighted the escalating threat of dengue, stating, “Dengue is a disaster; it’s a re-emerging infection, pointing to the rapid spread of bacteria and the dire situation in regions like Punjab, where floods have exacerbated disease transmission in stagnant water. The virus's life cycle within the host, leading to cytokine storms, plasma leakage, and ultimately, shock. He stressed the importance of early and accurate diagnosis: ‘If dengue is diagnosed smartly, it won’t complicate’.”
A critical concern raised during the discussion was the pervasive practice of self-medication, especially with antibiotics, during viral fevers. Dr. Narender Saini, former General Secretary of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and Chairman of IMA’s Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Standing Committee, issued a stark warning, saying, “Self-medication is not right... taking an antibiotic is not my right, it is self-damaging. Approximately 90% of fevers are viral, rendering antibiotics ineffective. Taking antibiotics is a self-destruction, which indiscriminately kill the trillions of good bacteria essential for our body's health, advocating strongly for the judicious use of these life-saving drugs.”
Dr. Aijaz Ilmi, Consultant Physician at Helvetia Diagnostics & Healthcare, painted a grim picture of the future if antibiotic misuse continues unchecked, cautioning, “In 20 years’ time, no antibiotic will work as it will turn resistant. The significant role of comorbidities in complicating fevers and the crucial impact of nutritional strength: ‘If you have a good vitamin, micronutrient strengths, it will have a good arsenal to fight the disease’. Health is a shared responsibility between patient and doctor.”
Dr. Manjari Chandra, Functional Nutritionist and Founder of Manjari Wellness, articulated the profound connection between diet and immunity, explaining, “Your immune system is dependent on the food you eat, stressing the importance of cultivating good gut bacteria, especially for managing conditions like diabetes. Nutrition has the power to fortify the body's defences, enabling it to effectively fight off diseases.
The OneHealth Connect Series concluded with a unified call for greater public awareness, responsible health practices, and a holistic approach combining prevention, appropriate medical intervention, and nutritional support to effectively manage dengue and other seasonal fevers.
Ms. Misha Dange, Trustee, HEAL Foundation while moderating the health dialogue – ‘Dengue & Seasonal Fevers: Prevention, Nutrition, and Responsible Care’, appealed, “The monsoon invariably elevates the concern for seasonal fevers and dengue, which significantly impacts lakhs across our nation. Our aim is to delve into these challenges holistically, integrating medical insights with critical aspects of nutrition, lifestyle, and community responsibility for effective prevention and recovery.”
About HEAL OneHealth Connect Series: The HEAL OneHealth Connect Series has been brought by HEAL Foundation in collaboration with Pacific OneHealth, which aims to foster dialogue and disseminate crucial health information among the public, bringing together leading experts to address pertinent health challenges and promote a healthier society.