Health experts warn of spike in infectious diseases as northeast monsoon arrives in Keralam

With the arrival of the northeast monsoon, the risk of infectious diseases is expected to rise, prompting health experts to urge the public to take precautions to prevent their spread.

Major health concerns include a rise in vector- and water-borne diseases due to intermittent rains. A health official said instructions had already been issued to local bodies to strengthen the implementation of Arogyabheri, a year-long epidemic prevention action plan that focusses on disease prevention.

“The public need to be wary about dengue and leptospirosis cases. There is a risk of the spread of water-borne diseases too. Local bodies have been asked to step up disease prevention activities,” the official said.

Along with risks posed by monsoon-related illnesses, Ernakulam continues to report cases of influenza. Dr. Rajany Jose, Professor of Community Medicine and coordinator of the Prevention of Epidemic and Infectious Diseases Cell at Government Medical College Hospital, Ernakulam, said seeking medical help without delay is crucial.

“One has to be vigilant and seek medical care if there are symptoms such as high fever. Precious time is lost, especially in cases such as leptospirosis. Often, cases become complicated when people rely on self-medication,” said Dr. Jose.

She also stressed the importance of following water safety measures, such as boiling drinking water, chlorinating wells, and observing dry days at home.

Dr. Sathyajith Nair, secretary of the Indian Academy of Paediatrics, Kochi, said that apart from air- and water-borne diseases, people should also be cautious about illnesses such as leptospirosis and dengue, which are associated with water accumulation.

“Local bodies need to be proactive, carry out preventive measures, and implement sanitation practices such as source reduction activities, disinfection, and spraying. Pre-monsoon drives need to be conducted without fail, which is not often the case,” he said.

He also noted a high volume of hand, foot and mouth disease cases. “The symptoms of the disease have an uncanny similarity to those of chickenpox. Seeking medical help is important,” he added.