DON’T TEST THE RAIN WATERS
MONSOONS BRING ALONG BEAUTIFUL RAINS BUT ALSO FLOODS AND A TON OF DISEASES — EVEN EXPERTS SAY IT’S BETTER TO BE CAREFUL THAN BE SORRY Waterborne diseases account for 3.6 per cent of the global burden of diseases annually
Due to the recent flooding of several Indian cities and heavy rains in many other parts of the country, there is a high risk of contracting waterborne diseases. These are mainly caused by pathogenic microorganisms that are commonly transmitted through contaminated fresh water. Infections tend to occur while drinking the infected water and consuming food cooked in it. One of the most widelyoccurring illnesses is the waterborne diarrheal disease.
In fact, waterborne diseases account for 3.6 per cent of the global burden of diseases and cause about 1.5 million human deaths annually. Hence, heavyduty water-logging in major cities of India seen during the monsoons every year raises the concern for the emergence of these diseases. Dr J. Anish Anand, consultant, internal medicine, Apollo Hospitals, answers some basic questions about these diseases and how to prevent and cure them:
Q What are the waterborne diseases that people suffer from once the flood waters recede?
The waterborne diseases are sporadic cholera, dysentery, typhoid, malaria, chikungunya, dengue, flu and leptospirosis. Leptospirosis is caused by leptospira bacteria present in the urine and faecal matter of animals like rats, dogs and cattle. When people wade through flooded streets, there is a high possibility of being infected with the waterborne bacteria. Those with wounds or cracked skin are particularly susceptible to the disease. Yes, waterborne diseases contracted after flooding are very debilitating. In the case of sporadic cholera, hospital admission is required and constant rehydration of the body is a must.
Similarly, those who suffer from malaria, chikungunya and dengue have to come to the hospital early for proper medical management. Late admissions often lead to complications and in a few cases they even prove to be fatal.
Q Are the water borne diseases debilitating? Q What are the preventive measures that people must take and for how long?
To prevent mosquitoes from breeding, water should not be allowed to stagnate; people should consume boiled or packaged water to prevent waterborne diseases. Spraying of insecticides and pesticides is important at points where the water stagnates.
Q Are people in low-lying areas with muck and silt outside their homes at a risk? What are the precautions they must take?
Muck and silt, which are found inside homes as well, have to be cleaned properly as they increase the risk of infections. Apart from being cleaned properly, there is also a need to use disinfectants if the silt is from the gutters. There are various pathogens and microorganisms in this silt. So, it is important to clean the area and allow it to dry. People must wash their hands regularly when they touch any surface in these areas as it can contain bacteria and viruses. Hand-washing must be done regularly.
Q For people who wade in kneedeep waters or walk for hours in water, what are the symptoms to be alert to?
They should see whether they are feeling feverish, have rashes, an upset stomach or any other symptoms of illness.