Fever and Infectious Disease Treatment in India

A fever lasting more than three days, very high fever, or fever with rash, bleeding, breathlessness or confusion should be evaluated promptly.

When no cause is found after initial tests, a structured evaluation for pyrexia of unknown origin (PUO) is carried out, including advanced blood tests, cultures and imaging.

• Dengue — a mosquito-borne viral infection that can lower platelet counts
• Malaria — a parasitic infection spread by mosquitoes
• Typhoid (enteric fever) — a bacterial infection spread through contaminated food or water
• Viral fevers — including influenza, chikungunya and other viral infections
• Respiratory infections — such as pneumonia and bronchitis
• Urinary and other bacterial infections — including kidney and skin infections
• Pyrexia of unknown origin (PUO) — prolonged fever needing detailed investigation

• High or persistent fever with chills
• Body aches, joint pain and headache
• Rash or red spots on the skin
• Cough, sore throat or breathlessness
• Vomiting, diarrhoea or abdominal pain
• Burning while passing urine

Seek urgent care if fever comes with bleeding from gums or nose, severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, breathlessness, drowsiness, confusion or seizures.

• Anyone with fever lasting more than three days
• Fever that keeps coming back
• Fever after travel to a tropical region
• Elderly patients, pregnant women and people with diabetes or low immunity
• Fever with any of the warning signs above

The physician takes a detailed history — including travel, exposures and duration of fever — and examines you. Tests are planned to find the cause quickly.

Most rapid tests are reported within a few hours, so treatment can begin the same day.

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the infection:

Fever control, fluids, rest and close monitoring of platelets and vital signs — the mainstay of dengue and many viral fevers.

Antibiotics, antimalarials or antivirals chosen based on test and culture results.

Intravenous fluids and medicines in day care or a ward for patients who need closer monitoring.

ICU care for severe infections such as severe dengue, complicated malaria or sepsis.

The cost of fever and infectious disease treatment in India depends on the tests and treatment required. Indicative costs at accredited hospitals are:

These figures are indicative and may vary by hospital, city and individual medical needs. Share your reports with us for a personalised, no-obligation estimate.

Factors affecting the cost:

• Cause and severity of the infection
• Need for hospital or ICU admission
• Type and duration of medicines
• Hospital category and city

Most infections improve within days once the right treatment starts. Some fevers, such as dengue and chikungunya, may leave tiredness or joint pain for a few weeks.

Typical stay in India: 2–5 days for most patients; longer for severe infections or detailed PUO evaluation.

Treatment is generally safe when given under medical supervision. Possible side effects include:

• Antibiotics — stomach upset or allergic reactions in some patients
• Antimalarials — nausea, dizziness or, rarely, effects on the heart rhythm
• IV lines — mild pain or swelling at the drip site
• Complications of infection — such as dehydration or low platelets, closely monitored by the care team

Your care team will explain the benefits and risks of each option before starting treatment.

• Drink plenty of fluids and rest during recovery
• Use mosquito repellents and nets to prevent dengue and malaria
• Drink safe water and eat freshly cooked food
• Complete the full course of prescribed medicines
• Get vaccinated against typhoid, influenza and hepatitis as advised
• Avoid painkillers such as ibuprofen in suspected dengue unless advised

1. Share your reports — send your recent tests and medical history for a free specialist review.
2. Get a treatment plan and estimate — receive hospital options, the suggested plan and an indicative cost.
3. Travel assistance — help with the medical visa invitation letter, airport pickup and accommodation.
4. Evaluation and treatment — consultation, tests and therapy at an accredited hospital with a dedicated coordinator.
5. Return home with follow-up — discharge summary, medication plan and remote follow-up with your doctor.