Worried about Covid cases in 2023? ‘Don’t panic or self-treat,’ says expert  

“Human beings are susceptible to different viruses and infections every two to three years,” says Dr Anirudh Lochan, Medical Superintendent and Head of Respiratory Medicine at Jeevan Jyoti Hospital, Dilshad Garden in Delhi. To stay safe from the viruses or diseases, he recommends wearing a mask as a steady practice. When asked about how to fight Covid-19 this season, Dr Lochan suggests getting a booster dose (if not already taken). In the following interview, he expresses how India will be affected with this new health concern. Read on:

Please tell us about your educational background.

I was born to doctor-parents in Iran. After spending a few years there, my family returned to India. Then I started schooling at Apeejay School, Noida, in 1985. I continued in the school till class 8. Post that, I had to change schools in order to appear for medical examinations in Delhi. Finally, I completed the same in 1999 and appeared for the All-India Medical examinations.

I then joined University College of Medical Sciences in East Delhi which is associated with Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital to pursue MBBS. Post its completion, I took up Chest Medicine at the premier Vallabhai Patel Chest Institute.

Then I enrolled in a Diploma in Allergy and Asthma from Christian Medical College, Vellore. I was a Silver Medallist of my batch. Ever since, I have been working at Jeevan Jyoti Clinic and Hospital in Dilshad Garden, Delhi.

It has been quite a journey. So, what are your tips for medical aspirants?

Don’t give up. If medicine is your calling, give it your best shot. I don’t recommend studying the entire day. As a student, I used to attempt the multiple choice questions and later discuss them with my friends. This technique was about learning backwards and understanding the topic in greater detail through interactive dialogue.  

Furthermore, I would say that aspirants should ensure adequate amount of sleep. Do follow an exercise regime to stay fit. Remember, entrance examinations are all about thinking on your feet. Lastly, be in touch with your seniors, colleagues and never go into a cocoon.

Given your specialisation, I would like to ask about the recent news reports based on Covid-19 cases in India. How is it looking for us?

So far so good. I believe that India has already been through its worst phase. Moreover, we are fortunate to have had an efficient vaccination programme. Most of our population is vaccinated and a very high number of people have been infected in some manner or the other. According to me, what now Covid-19 will be relegated to is another influenza wave. It has more to do with people falling sick due to the winter season. Some symptoms include cold, fever, and body ache. I don’t see a further breakout of the pandemic.

What are the symptoms people should look out for?

A virus keeps evolving over seconds, minutes, and hours in a human body. These days, those suffering from viral infections tend to experience gastro intensive issues such as vomiting, indigestion, etc. Fever is a common complaint as well. If the signs or symptoms of a certain infection are evident, do not ignore them.   

Do you think that self-diagnosis worsens the condition of patients?

Yes, absolutely. I remember the case of my school mate during the second wave, who was infected with Covid-19. Unfortunately, he did not survive. A major mistake that was done at that time was that he did not seek medical help until the second week of his infection. This had a massive impact on his body and eventually his oxygen levels began to dip. After that, a lot of time was wasted in being able to secure a bed in a hospital. By the time he came under our care, it was difficult to save him.

So, I would advise patients to never self-diagnose or self-treat. Always have a family doctor and go as per their guidance. During the Covid-19 waves, many lives were lost due to panic. Therefore, see a medical practitioner on day-two of the problem.

How were school years at Apeejay, Noida?

Since primary, I have been a good student. I vividly recall the school trips, activities and functions. It was super fun! The school taught me everything and they were quite particular about discipline. As far as I can remember, I was always destined to become a doctor. My Biology teacher in the school further fuelled the fire in me to pursue the medical profession.