Stay cool: Water-borne diseases unlikely to ruin summer fun

With the temperature on a constant rise, infections and water-borne diseases are unlikely to occur, unless incessant rain spoils the summer fun.

According to doctors, gastroenteritis and other water-related illnesses can occur only if there is incessant rain causing water logging and contamination.

The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board received over 90 complaints of water contamination in February, 180 in March and 48 complaints in April till date.

Although officials say that the summer has nothing to do with the increase in water contamination, it is one of the main sources of water-borne illnesses.

Dr C M Muralidhara, Resident Medical Officer, Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital, says that normally they do receive many cases of gastroenteritis and water-related infections in summer. But this year, not many cases have been reported till now.

“There is a floating population of patients complaining of water-related illnesses. Since ours is a referral hospital, we receive most of the cases. And as it is a hot weather, there are not many complaints. However, if we receive incessant rain, then infections will also increase,” he added.

Doctors at the Victoria Hospital also voiced similar concern.

Dr H S Satish, the medical superintendent, Victoria Hospital, said there was no spurt in the cases. However, if it rains, then the hospital does record a few cases.

“Infection can occur not only due to water contamination, people should avoid drinking uncovered water, eating cut fruits, avoid stale food,” the doctor suggested.

Dr M N Lokesh, chief health officer, BBMP, said people's habits have changed and they have become more cautious.

“Contamination of water is the main source of infection. However, there are habits of not washing hands after and before eating and after using toilets which can also result in water-related infections,”