Doctors in Malaga have warned of a noticeable surge in colds and respiratory illnesses following the city’s August feria.
The phenomenon is so familiar locally that it has acquired the nickname ‘virus de la feria’.
Medics say consultations for respiratory illnesses have already increased since the end of August, following the huge influx of visitors and intense socialising surrounding the annual fiesta.
And with nurseries and schools reopening, doctors expect the number of cases to climb further during the first half of September.
Dr Manuel Baca, head of Paediatrics at Quiron in Malaga and director of Grupo Uncibay, told Malaga Hoy that he had already observed a ‘significant’ increase in respiratory conditions, particularly common colds and Covid.
‘People here in Malaga call it the ‘feria virus’,’ he said.
‘Almost since the end of August we have noticed a significant volume in terms of the presence of respiratory illnesses.
‘It’s not a peak as powerful as the epidemic peaks in November or December, but the levels are certainly high and perhaps not typical for this time of year.’
He predicted another increase following the Virgen de la Victoria festivities, saying consultations could rise by around 15% to 20%.
‘We had an increase from the feria and this is going to be a second one,’ he added.
When large numbers of people from different places mix in crowded bars, streets, fairground attractions and other social settings, it can make it easier for respiratory viruses to spread.
Dr Enrique Sanchez, head of Paediatrics at Vithas Xanit Internacional and Vithas Malaga hospitals, added that he was also seeing more patients.
He expects the ‘maximum peak’ around the middle of September, coinciding with children returning to nurseries and schools.
‘Consultations have already been increasing this week and next week they will certainly increase much more,’ he said.
‘The first colds, bronchiolitis and laryngitis will begin. It’s the season for it.’
Doctors are recommending familiar precautions as children return to school, including regular hand washing, ventilating indoor spaces and coughing or sneezing into the elbow rather than the hand.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
