Monsoon Alert: Experts urge for caution and regular check-ups to prevent water-borne diseases like, Dengue, Hepatitis and Typhoid

 Monsoon Alert: Experts urge for caution and regular check-ups to prevent water-borne diseases like, Dengue, Hepatitis and Typhoid 

Amritsar, July 2024: The onset of the monsoon season brings with it the risk of water-borne ailments With extreme climate change events, such as urban floods and waterlogging every year, the risk of water-borne ailments —such as dengue, hepatitis, and typhoid—is at an all-time high. Health experts emphasize caution and early detection to prevent potential health crises. The warm, wet conditions from the monsoon rain create an ideal breeding ground for disease-carrying vectors and pathogens, making vigilance essential. This is especially important in July, when there is a notable increase in patients with complaints linked to water-borne diseases, often due to consuming contaminated food and water. These conditions can lead to bacterial, viral, or parasitic diseases, including gastrointestinal pathogens causing hepatitis A and E, leptospirosis, typhoid, and dengue. Dr. Rajeev Mehra, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine at Fortis Escorts Amritsar, advises disinfecting water tanks twice a year and regularly testing water for contaminants to prevent infections. 

Below is a list of most common water-borne diseases, and some simple preventive measures that can be taken to avoid getting affected  

1. Understanding Water-Borne Diseases 

• Dengue: Transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant water. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle aches, rash, and mild bleeding 
• Hepatitis A and E: Caused by consuming contaminated food and water. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice 
• Typhoid: Caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi which causes typhoid fever (which is a life-threatening infection) typically spread through contaminated food and water. Symptoms include prolonged high fever, weakness, stomach pain, headache and loss of appetite 

2. Prevention Tips 

• Personal Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, especially before eating and after using the toilet 
• Safe Drinking Water: Use boiled or purified water for drinking. Avoid consuming raw or unpasteurized milk and untreated water 
• Food Safety: Eat well-cooked food and avoid street food. Ensure fruits and vegetables are washed with clean water 
• Avoid Stagnant Water: Eliminate any possibility of water stagnating around your home to prevent mosquito breeding. Use mosquito repellents and nets 
• Vaccinations: Consider vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid, especially if you live in or travel to high-risk areas 

3. Early Detection and Action 

• Monitor Symptoms: Be vigilant about the symptoms of dengue, hepatitis, and typhoid. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes 
• Seek Medical Advice: Consult a healthcare professional immediately if you or your family members exhibit symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial 
• Regular Health Check-ups: Regular health check-ups can help in early detection and management of these diseases