Hyderabad: The incessant rains, fluctuating temperatures, and heavy waterlogging have turned many areas in the city into breeding grounds for various seasonal diseases. Concerns have been raised by doctors regarding the increasing cases of flu, dengue, malaria, respiratory tract infections, viral fever, and water and food-borne illnesses during this monsoon season.
Common symptoms of these viral infections include high fever, cold, cough, body ache, chest congestion, nausea, and headache.
Dr. Shiva Raju K, the head of the medicine department at KIMs hospitals, stated that flu is the most prevalent illness caused by the rains and weather changes. Over the last two weeks, there has been a noticeable rise in flu cases. He also mentioned that dengue cases have increased due to water-logging, while water contamination has led to typhoid, viral diarrhea, acute gastroenteritis, and jaundice-causing viral hepatitis cases.
To enhance immunity and combat flu, Dr. Raju advised taking vitamin D tablets, managing stress, consuming protein-rich food, engaging in regular physical exercise, and avoiding street food. Additionally, getting flu vaccines annually, especially for the elderly, children, and diabetic patients, is highly recommended.
Dr. Dilip Gude, a senior consultant physician, warned about the rising cases of leptospirosis, a bacterial infection, in areas with heavy water-logging and floods. People moving in these submerged and waterlogged areas are vulnerable to leptospirosis, which manifests with symptoms like high fever, headache, and may even lead to hepatitis and severe conditions like liver failure. Hypothermia is also a concern among the elderly, diabetics, and kidney patients, as they may struggle to cope with cold temperatures.
Dr. Anish Anand, an internal medicine consultant, highlighted the increased risk of asthma attacks due to higher humidity levels. Individuals with a history of allergies, smokers, and asthma patients should take extra precautions during the rainy season.
Here are some precautions to follow during the rainy season:
1. Avoid street food.
2. Drink clean and safe water.
3. Wear dry, loose, and warm clothing.
4. Clear water-logged areas in and around the house.
5. Use mosquito repellents and mosquito nets.
6. Get flu vaccines.
7. Enhance immunity through regular exercise.
8. Elderly people, children, pregnant women, and individuals with co-morbid conditions like diabetes and heart ailments should be extra cautious.
