TN gears up to prevent outbreak of water-borne diseases

Doctors at government hospitals in the city have already started getting a higher number of cases of water borne diseases and infections after the Northeast monsoon picked up in the State. Diseases such as diarrhoea, ENT infections, respiratory tract infections, among others are being reported in large numbers, claimed doctors. Last year, a few cases of cholera were reported in the city at a private hospital. Thus, the State health department is working towards preventing any such instances this year.

Pediatrics at the Institute of Child Health said that they have been witnessing an increase in the number of pneumonia and diarrhea cases among children after the recent spate of rain.

“Children easily fall victim to food allergies, diarrhoea and other infections that are caused by contaminated water. It is therefore, necessary to ensure that the water used for drinking and cooking is clean and free of any germs,” said Dr Mohan Kumar, paediatrician, Institute of Child Health. He added that they have been receiving three-four new cases every week, the number, however, is likely to rise.

The Directorate of Public Health has pooled in medical staff to carry out chlorination and awareness campaigns. “The cases of dengue have reduced considerably in most of the districts. The department is now focusing on chlorination of water, food safety precautions and awareness programmes are being held to ensure prevention of any outbreak caused by water borne diseases,” said Dr K Kolandaisamy, Public Health Director.