Chennai has been battling heavy rain for the past few days. Back to back weather systems in the Bay of Bengal have been giving heavy to massive rains in Chennai and several other parts of Tamil Nadu. Life has come to a standstill for Chennaites as heavy downpours continue to affect the capital city of Tamil Nadu.
As people struggle amidst traffic chaos and flight delays, an adverse effect of these rains remains unnoticed. With torrential rains, come various health troubles. While getting wet in the rain may result in flu or a severe cold, unclean water may lead to other water-borne diseases. During these times, all one can do is take appropriate preventive measures.
As per Dr. A.K Sharma of the District Hospital in Bokaro, “Viral and gastrointestinal infections are quite common when it rains heavily. Cough and cold are also general health issues that one faces on rainy days”. One needs to take adequate precautionary measures to stay disease free during these times.
Due to heavy downpour, the contamination of water has taken place and can become a major cause of severe infections. Stagnation of water should be prevented as it may become a breeding source for mosquitoes. This may further result in mosquito-borne illnesses including malaria and dengue.
Dr. Sharma also says that boiled water, frequently washing one’s hands and face, and eating properly cooked food can be helpful. Also, clean water should be used for washing utensils and cleaning fruits and vegetables to prevent waterborne diseases. One should avoid wearing wet clothes so as to prevent any kind of fungal infection.
If any symptoms including body ache, high fever, vomiting and loss of appetite or severe diarrhoea persist for a long time, the person should immediately be referred to a doctor.
Image Credit: thehindu.com
