PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The ongoing monsoon season has led to an increase in cases of waterborne diseases among residents, including children, according to doctors. The monsoon season usually sees a rise in water contamination, which has resulted in various waterborne diseases among the population. Doctors reported that in the outpatient department (OPD), cases of illnesses such as diarrhoea, typhoid and vomiting have significantly increased among residents. Residents are urged to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from these waterborne diseases.
Senior physician at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay District Hospital Dr Praveen Panwar said that during the current monsoon season, there has been a notable rise in waterborne diseases, including diarrhoea, typhoid and jaundice. He is currently seeing about 30 to 35 cases of these illnesses in the OPD, an increase of approximately three to four per cent compared to normal levels. Panwar said that the surge in cases is attributed to water logging and contamination, which heightens the risk of infection. Common symptoms of these diseases include loose motions, loss of appetite and vomiting. In addition to waterborne illnesses, the humidity that occurs when the rain stops also raises the chances of viral infections. Aside from waterborne diseases, there is an increase in the likelihood of cold and coughs during this season. Taking necessary precautions is vital to prevent these ailments. Residents are advised to drink boiled water instead of tap water, avoid consuming stale food and if anyone is suffering from a cold or cough, they should maintain distance from others to prevent spreading the infection, he said.
Paediatrician at Shri Mahant Indiresh Hospital Dr Vishal Kaushik stated that there has been an increase in cases of waterborne diseases, including vomiting and diarrhoea, among children. He said that water contamination, along with food contamination, has risen during this season, contributing to these illnesses. In the OPD, he has observed 25 to 30 cases of vomiting and diarrhoea in children, a significant increase compared to normal days. Children of all ages are currently facing this issue, with school-going children being particularly vulnerable to these diseases. He emphasised the importance of parents taking necessary precautions for their children, such as providing them with sufficient safe drinking water in bottles to avoid consuming outside water. It is also essential to ensure that children have clean drinking water and avoid street food during this period. Additionally, children should practice proper handwashing to help prevent these ailments, Kaushik said.
