Are you a Mumbaikar? Doctors warn you’re at high risk this winter

Mumbai: As temperatures dip across the city, Mumbai is witnessing a worrying rise in throat infections, with doctors reporting a 70% surge in cases over the past month. Hospitals are seeing patients across all age groups coming in with throat pain, difficulty swallowing, persistent cough, hoarseness, and irritation.

Cold air, sudden temperature fluctuations, high viral circulation, and worsening pollution have combined to make this winter particularly harsh on the throat and respiratory tract. Doctors say many people delay treatment, allowing minor irritation to develop into prolonged or repeated infections.

Throat infections in winter are commonly triggered by viruses, bacteria, or irritation caused by cold and polluted air, which inflames the throat lining and weakens local immunity.

Speaking to Mathrubhumi, Dr Akash Gupta, ENT, Apollo Spectra Mumbai, said that cold air, viral spread in crowded places, and lowered immunity during winter make the throat more vulnerable.

“Pollution and smog also irritate the airway, making symptoms worse. The symptoms seen are throat pain, sore throat, dryness and irritation, cough and phlegm, hoarseness of voice, and even mild fever or body pain.

There is a 70% surge in throat infection cases. Last month, seven out of 10 people aged 20–60 were coming in with complaints of throat pain, swelling, and irritation,” he added. 

He added that simple preventive steps—such as warm water intake, steam inhalation twice a day, avoiding sudden temperature changes, limiting cold foods, and wearing masks outdoors—can significantly reduce risk.

“Early management helps prevent severe infections or the need for antibiotics. People should not ignore continuous soreness or pain, especially if it lasts more than two to three days,” Dr Gupta warned.

A similar trend is being reported at Zynova Shalby Hospital. Dr Nirav Dhiraj Chheda, ENT, told Mathrubhumi that winter can take a toll on respiratory health.

He said, “Many people also experience throat infections that can bring discomfort. Winter brings colder air, faster viral spread, higher pollution, and lower immunity, all of which make the throat more sensitive and easily infected. A 50% surge has been witnessed in throat infection cases during winter. Five out of 10 people in the last month complained of throat pain, sore throat, swelling, and irritation.”

He highlighted that many adults seek medical help only after the pain becomes severe or swallowing turns difficult.

“Winter infections spread fast, especially in offices and crowded places. Early care, warm fluids, and avoiding cold exposure help in quick recovery. If symptoms continue for more than a few days, a doctor must evaluate them to rule out bacterial infection or tonsillitis and then recommend a proper line of treatment,” he added.

Doctors across the city are urging residents to stay vigilant, avoid ignoring early signs, and adopt winter-friendly habits to safeguard their respiratory health.