Visakhapatnam is grappling with a significant rise in viral fevers, prompting concern among authorities, including the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation's (GVMC) Public Health Department. The surge in cases is happening due to recent incessant rains, which have exacerbated the situation. Health officials report common symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, and runny nose.Health Authorities Urge Isolation GVMC Chief Medical Officer Naresh Kumar emphasised the critical need for those infected to isolate themselves from crowded places, offices, and public gatherings to prevent the further spread of the disease. He warned that droplets from infected individuals spread through coughing, sneezing, or touching, can easily transmit the virus to healthy individuals.Free Medical Tests Dr Jagadeshwara Rao, Visakhapatnam District Medical & Health Department Officer, urged residents to utilise the free medical tests available at the city's Urban Primary Health Centres (UPHCs) rather than crowding government-run King George Hospital (KGH) or private facilities for tests and medication.“The government is conducting a total of 72 medical tests free of charge across 66 UPHCs in the city,” Dr Rao said. “However, people are still opting for KGH or private hospitals. We are making efforts to raise awareness about the free services through FM radio and our staff.”Dengue and Malaria Numbers Remain ManageableDr Rao also assured the public that there is no cause for alarm regarding dengue and malaria. As of August 26, 2024, GVMC data shows 332 dengue cases, 106 malaria cases, and no reported cases of chikungunya. Despite the rising dengue numbers, no deaths have been reported, though officials remain cautious about the potential impact of continued rainfall.Special Medical Camps Set Up Across the CityIn response to the growing concerns, the State Medical and Health Department has organized special medical camps across the city's 63 primary health centres. Dr Rao reassured citizens that the camps are equipped to handle cases and urged them not to panic but seek immediate medical attention at the nearest UPHC.Rain-Related Incidents in Anandapuram MandalThe heavy rains have also caused infrastructure damage in some areas. In Anandapuram mandal, knee-deep water was observed due to overflowing streams and canals, causing vehicle damage and the collapse of a school wall. Local authorities, including YSRCP leader Majji Venkata Rao and MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao, have visited the affected areas, and medical camps are scheduled to be held in the mandal.Residents are advised to take precautions, such as drinking boiled water, to reduce the risk of illness during this period of heightened viral activity.