*TITLE:* GMC Baramulla Issues Winter Health Advisory; Doctors Advise Precautions for Children and Elderly

*SUBTITLE:* Doctors report rise in respiratory infections as temperature dips in North Kashmi

Baramulla, September 30, 2026 — With a dip in night temperature and onset of autumn in North Kashmir, doctors at Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla have issued a health advisory regarding seasonal illnesses.

According to doctors at GMC Baramulla, the Out Patient Department (OPD) has been witnessing an increase in cases of viral fever, common cold, cough, sore throat, and respiratory infections. The rise is being reported especially among children below 10 years and elderly above 60 years.

A senior doctor from the Department of Medicine, GMC Baramulla, said, "Every year during October and November we see a rise in Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTI) and exacerbation of asthma and COPD. Factors include dry weather, indoor crowding, reduced ventilation and burning of crop residue. People should take precautions."

The hospital administration said it has displayed Information, Education and Communication (IEC) material in OPD waiting areas.

The advisory issued includes:

- Wear warm clothes in layers, especially during morning and evening hours
- Keep elderly and children warm, avoid direct exposure to cold wind
- Maintain hand hygiene, cover mouth while coughing and sneezing
- Ensure children are vaccinated as per schedule
- Drink warm fluids, keep homes ventilated
- Avoid self-medication; visit hospital if fever persists for more than three days or if there is breathing difficulty
- Patients with chronic illness like asthma, diabetes, hypertension should continue regular medicines

Data from Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir, indicates respiratory illness cases see a 20-30 percent increase during winter months in the Valley.

An official from GMC Baramulla said, "OPD services for Medicine and Paediatrics have been strengthened. Isolation wards and oxygen supply are being kept ready as per directions of Health and Medical Education Department ahead of winter."

The official added that people should avoid use of kangri and gas heaters in closed rooms without ventilation due to risk of suffocation.

The Health Department has urged people to contact 104 helpline or visit nearest health centre in case of emergency.

*Sources:* Advisory from Department of Medicine, GMC Baramulla on Sept 29, 2026; Patient interaction at OPD on Sept 30, 2026; Directorate of Health Services Kashmir seasonal data; H&ME Department winter preparedness directions.

*TAGS:* GMC Baramulla, Winter Health Advisory, Kashmir Health, Baramulla, Respiratory Infection, Health Advisory J&K