Telangana Health Alert: Monsoon conditions could fuel vector- and water-borne illnesses

Hyderabad: The Telangana Directorate of Public Health and Family Welfare has issued a general health advisory urging citizens to take preventive measures against seasonal illnesses during the ongoing monsoon.

The advisory follows an India Meteorological Department–Hyderabad (IMD-Hyderabad) warning of heavy rainfall across Telangana for the next seven days, which is expected to lower temperatures and increase humidity, conditions that can trigger vector-borne, water-borne and airborne diseases.

“As IMD-Hyderabad has issued a warning alert of heavy rainfall for the next seven days across Telangana… [it] may lead to seasonal illnesses, especially vector, water and air-borne diseases,” the advisory states.

Preventing vector-borne diseases

The department has cautioned citizens to take measures to reduce mosquito breeding and protect against diseases like malaria, dengue, and chikungunya. Recommended steps include:

• Securing doors and windows with mosquito nets or screens.

• Covering beds and cribs with mosquito nets.

• Using mosquito repellents as a precaution.

• Maintaining domestic drains to prevent water stagnation.

• Covering domestic septic tanks with a mesh to block mosquito entry.

• Observing a weekly ‘Friday Dry Day’ to eliminate stagnant water around homes.

Guarding against water-borne infections

For diseases such as acute gastroenteritis, jaundice, and typhoid, the advisory recommends:

• Drinking only filtered or boiled water.

• Washing hands regularly, especially before and after meals.

• Avoiding consumption of stale food or eating outside during this period.

Reducing risk of airborne infections

The public has also been warned about viral fevers and influenza. The advisory suggests:

• Avoiding handshakes with people who are sick and refraining from physical contact when unwell.

• Using hand sanitisers frequently.

• Covering the mouth and nose with a handkerchief when coughing or sneezing.

• Seeking immediate care at a government health facility if flu-like symptoms develop, including cough with fever, headache, sore throat, and body aches.

“If any person develops flu-like symptoms… please go to nearby Government Health facilities,” the advisory notes. “In case of a health emergency, please call 108 Ambulance Services.”

Government preparedness

The Directorate of Public Health said special arrangements have been made in public health facilities across Telangana.

“As a part of precautionary measures, the Government has made elaborate arrangements by providing special beds, I.V fluids, and essential medicines at all the public health facilities,” the statement adds.

Medicines and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) sachets are being made available through Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Anganwadi workers to handle any exigencies.