Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Mar 28: New research has revealed that a significant proportion of fever cases in India may be linked to serious infections rather than mild viral illnesses, highlighting the risks of self-medication and delayed diagnosis.

According to a study conducted by Thyrocare Technologies Limited, nearly one in three individuals who underwent comprehensive fever testing between 2023 and 2025 were diagnosed with infections such as Dengue, Typhoid, Malaria, Chikungunya and Leptospirosis.

The analysis covered over 1.08 lakh individuals across India, offering a detailed look at the country’s evolving fever patterns. Among the infections, typhoid emerged as the most commonly detected, affecting 18.1% of patients, followed by dengue at 14.4%. Malaria, chikungunya and leptospirosis were also identified across the testing population.

Experts noted that many people continue to dismiss fever as a minor issue, often opting to “wait it out.” However, the findings suggest that a large number of such cases may require timely medical intervention. Nearly 10% of infection-positive patients were found to have co-infections, most commonly a combination of dengue and typhoid, complicating diagnosis and treatment.

The study also highlighted that fever is not merely a symptom but a sign of broader physiological stress. Around 27% of fever patients showed low platelet counts, particularly among those with malaria and dengue. Additionally, more than half of the patients recorded elevated liver enzyme levels, indicating possible organ stress.

Researchers observed changing trends over the three-year period, with dengue cases declining, while malaria showed a gradual increase. Seasonal patterns were also evident, with dengue peaking around October and malaria rising during the monsoon months.

Gender differences were noted as well, with overall infection rates slightly higher among women, largely due to higher typhoid detection. In contrast, malaria was found to affect men more frequently.

Health experts emphasised that early diagnosis and data-driven testing are crucial in managing fever-related illnesses effectively. The findings underline the need for greater awareness, urging individuals to seek timely medical evaluation instead of relying solely on self-diagnosis.

The study reinforces a key message: fever should not be ignored, as it may signal underlying infections that require prompt and appropriate treatment.