Chennai, Oct 26:
As the northeast monsoon brings rain and waterlogging to Chennai, residents need to take extra precautions to protect themselves from seasonal infections, mosquito-borne diseases and other health problems. Stagnant water, contaminated drinking water, damp surroundings and sudden changes in weather can increase health risks during the rainy season.
Doctors advise people to avoid walking through stagnant rainwater wherever possible, as it may be contaminated with sewage and other waste. People with cuts or wounds should be particularly careful, since contact with contaminated water can lead to infections. Anyone who develops fever, redness, swelling or pain after exposure to floodwater should seek medical attention.
Safe drinking water is essential during the monsoon. Residents should drink boiled or properly purified water and avoid food and beverages from unhygienic roadside stalls. Fruits and vegetables should be washed thoroughly, while cooked food should be kept covered and consumed fresh. People should also wash their hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet.
Mosquitoes can breed in water collected in flowerpots, discarded containers, tyres, buckets and other objects around homes. Residents should empty such containers regularly, keep water storage vessels covered and use mosquito repellents or nets where necessary. Wearing clothes that cover the arms and legs can also help reduce mosquito bites. Fever accompanied by severe headache, body pain, vomiting or unusual bleeding requires prompt medical evaluation, as these may be warning signs of a serious illness.
Rainy weather can also aggravate respiratory problems and allergies in some people. Those who are vulnerable should avoid getting drenched, change out of wet clothes promptly and keep their surroundings well ventilated. Wet floors and slippery roads increase the risk of falls, while damp walls and mould may trigger allergies. People with asthma or other chronic conditions should continue their prescribed medication and consult their doctors if symptoms worsen.
Residents should avoid driving or walking through flooded streets when the depth or condition of the water is uncertain. They should never touch exposed electrical wires or electrical equipment in waterlogged areas. Children should be kept away from open drains, overflowing canals and stagnant water. People cleaning flooded homes should use protective footwear and gloves, and wash thoroughly afterwards.
Health officials generally recommend seeking medical advice for persistent fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, breathing difficulty or signs of dehydration rather than self-medicating. Prompt attention to symptoms, safe food and water, mosquito control and basic personal hygiene can help Chennai residents reduce monsoon-related health risks.