By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The incidence of ‘Langda fever’ is rising in Bihar, with 20 to 25 percent of fever patients in Patna’s hospitals and clinics showing symptoms. This sudden surge in cases has surprised doctors, as patients experience severe leg pain, swelling in the ankles and joints, making it difficult for them to walk normally. Surprisingly, investigations have ruled out both dengue and chikungunya, leading doctors to label it as a new ‘Langda fever.’
In the past week, symptoms of Langda fever have been found in every second fever patient in Patna. The areas most affected are those where dengue cases are also prevalent, including Lohanipur, Kadamkuan, Bhootnath Road, Chitraguptnagar, Kanti Factory Road, Ashoknagar, Newpatliputra Colony, Digha, Sipara, Jayaprakashnagar, and PC Colony. Dozens of cases are emerging from specific localities, posing a growing challenge for medical professionals. Doctors warn that with the rapid spread of the infection, it is hard to predict which areas may be affected next.
Dr Santosh S Thakur, a senior physician in the city, noted that this time, patients are exhibiting different fever symptoms. Despite investigations, neither dengue, chikungunya, nor typhoid has been confirmed. Instead, patients present with very high fever, severe leg pain, and swelling around the ankles and knees, making walking difficult. The fever causes patients to walk with a limp, leading to its naming as Langda fever. It shares some symptoms with both dengue and chikungunya, such as prolonged discomfort. Even after recovery, patients struggle to walk properly for 10 to 15 days.
