As the state prepares for an increase in monsoon-related illnesses due to predictions of heavy rainfall throughout the region, the Telangana Health Department has issued a public health warning. Health officials have advised citizens to take extra precautions against a spike in seasonal illnesses as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts light to moderate rains for the upcoming week and a heavy rain alert for the days ahead.
Increase in Monsoon Illnesses
Since June, typhoid cases have risen, and as monsoon progresses, viral fevers and vector-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya are increasing.
Since June, the city’s private and public hospitals have seen a rise in viral fever and VBD cases. Over the last two months, doctors have also recorded cases of COVID-19. From January to April this year, the state reported 267 dengue, 83 chikungunya, and 53 malaria cases, per NCVBDC data. The health authority has not yet released official statistics on viral fever and vector-borne diseases.
Health Department Advisory
Residents should cover windows, doors, beds, and cribs with mosquito nets or screens to prevent malaria, dengue, and chikungunya effectively. Health officials also advise applying insect repellents as a precaution. Key steps include cleaning home drains to prevent stagnant water and covering septic tanks with mesh to stop mosquito breeding. Officials also advise observing a “Friday-Dry Day” weekly to eliminate standing water near residences.
Special provisions have been made by the department for all public health facilities. These consist of providing IV fluids, critical medications, customized beds, and oral rehydration salts (ORS). Health officials gave ORS sachets and medicines to ANMs, ASHAs, and Anganwadi workers to ensure quick responses during community health emergencies.
Preventive Measures to Take by the Public
Authorities advise people to install screens on doors and windows, use mosquito nets on beds, apply repellents, clean drains, and cover septic tanks to prevent mosquito breeding.
The alert also discusses the increased risk of typhoid, jaundice, and severe gastroenteritis that typically occurs during the monsoon season. Health officials urge people to drink only boiled or filtered water, wash hands before and after eating, and avoid stale or unhygienic outside food.
Everyone is advised by health officials to maintain good hygiene and avoid sick people as influenza and viral fever cases are expected to increase. People should avoid handshakes when ill, use hand sanitizer often, cover coughs/sneezes, and visit government clinics for flu-like symptoms. Residents are encouraged to call the 108 ambulance services in the event of a medical emergency.
Conclusion
The Health Department’s warning highlights the critical need for vigilance against seasonal illnesses as Telangana enters the peak monsoon season. The state must take proactive measures—readying hospitals and encouraging initiatives like “Friday Dry Day”—to control vector- and waterborne diseases. Public cooperation—maintaining hygiene, removing stagnant water, and seeking timely medical care—is essential for successfully overcoming monsoon-related health challenges. It’s also critical to discourage self-medication and address issues in susceptible areas. With joint efforts from citizens and the government, Telangana can effectively handle monsoon health risks and protect its people during this period.
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