Caution against monsoon diseases

A lot of GE cases ( viral or bacterial ) are reported as there are chances of the overflowing sewage water mixing with the drinking water during monsoon, said Dr Purnima, Head of Infectious Diseases Unit, Manipal Hospital.

After the rains, the stagnant water in puddles, pot holes as well as open tanks etc. becomes breeding spot for disease carrying mosquitoes, leading to increase in malaria, dengue and chikungunya cases. Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E (water borne illness) are also on rise during this period.

Precaution

Doctors recommend drinking boiled and cooled water only, avoiding food items from vendors, washing one’s hands constantly to prevent the spread of GE if someone in the vicinity has been affected. In case of dehydration (a symptom of GE) drink lemonade with sugar and pinch of salt, said Dr Purnima.

Stagnant water in flower pots, vases and surrounding areas should be cleared. Tanks and vessels filled with water should be completely covered and washed frequently. One should use mosquito nets and repellents as well.
DH News Service