Kerala has been hit with heavy rains, which have resulted in a number of landslides and even flooding in certain districts. Life in many districts has come to a standstill with many low-lying areas flooded under rainwater.
With such heavy rains, come certain health risks. Here are a few precautionary measures to take to keep yourself and your family safe.
“Access to clean drinking water becomes a primary concern during such times,” states Dr Jayakumar, a medical officer from Chennai, “Usually following rains, we tend to see a lot of cases of acute diarrheal diseases and other such gastric issues. Often times these are the result of contaminated drinking water sources.”
He further recommended boiling water before using the same for cooking or consumption of any kind. An alternative option would be to stock up on water bottles.
It has also been suggested that people keep some basic emergency supplies as well.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list some of the things which should be kept in an emergency situation, including torch lights (with extra batteries), candles, sanitary napkins and mosquito repellants. It also suggests having a basic first aid kit handy, consisting of antibiotic ointments, bandages and gauze pads at the least.
A stock of electrolyte powder (ORS solution powder) can also be kept to ensure that everyone stays well hydrated, according to Dr Jayakumar.
Speaking to TNM, Kerala State Additional Health Secretary Rajeev Sadanandan, also stressed the importance of taking this measure.
“After these rains pass, the after effects become our primary focus,” he said. “We will see a lot of gastric issues, leptospirosis and such diseases, which spread because of these conditions. Once the rains settle, we will surely focus on tackling the health issues which crop up.”
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast more rains for the next two days in Kerala. An official at IMD told TNM that the rains are expected to continue for two more days, predicting “heavy to very heavy rainfall” on Thursday, and “heavy rainfall” on Friday.
Around 22 people have been killed in rain-related incidents since Wednesday.