Pune: Respiratory Illnesses Surge in Pune as 2025 Records Over 41,000 Cases, PMC Warns

Pune, 29th December 2025: Changing weather patterns and worsening air quality have pushed Pune into a challenging public health phase this year, with the city recording more than 41,000 cases of respiratory infections and influenza-like illnesses in 2025, according to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).

Data released by the civic health department shows that 41,513 residents sought medical treatment for symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, cold, and breathing difficulties between January and December. Doctors report that children, senior citizens, and individuals with existing health conditions were the most affected, as their immunity makes them more vulnerable to respiratory diseases.

Health officials observed that infection rates rose sharply during the post-monsoon and winter months—periods typically linked to seasonal respiratory ailments. Dense population clusters, crowded public transport, schools, and workplaces further contributed to faster transmission across the city.

Emphasising the need for vigilance, Dr Vaishali Jadhav, Assistant Health Officer at PMC, said early diagnosis remains critical. “Timely medical attention and public cooperation are key to preventing complications and limiting the spread of respiratory infections,” she said, urging citizens to follow preventive practices consistently.

The civic body has issued a public advisory asking residents to seek immediate medical care if symptoms develop, wear masks in crowded spaces, practise regular hand hygiene, avoid attending work or school when unwell, and refrain from spitting in public areas.

PMC data also revealed the prevalence of other communicable diseases reported in the city during 2025, including:

Viral hepatitis: 133 cases
Typhoid: 212 cases
Leptospirosis: 21 cases
Acute diarrhoea: 9,005 cases
Cholera: 1 case

Health authorities assured that government hospitals and civic health centres are fully prepared with adequate testing and treatment facilities. Experts cautioned that rising pollution levels, climate variability, and urban overcrowding could further intensify infection risks if preventive measures are neglected.