New Delhi: During monsoons, there is a prevalence of a varied range of infections and viruses, among the most common are vector-borne diseases such as Dengue, Zika and Chikungunya viruses. The cases see an upsurge due to heavy rainfall, waterlogging situations and frequent fluctuations in the temperature. The same is being noticed in Maharashtra’s Pune district, according to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) officials, this year the city reported 202 cases of Dengue, 176 cases of Chikungunya and 101 cases of Zika virus. Experts note that these mosquito species can survive in outdoor environments and pose a significant threat to the health of the public. What is leading to such as steep rise in cases in Pune?
Dr Aklesh Tandekar, Head consultant of critical care told News9, “There’s a significant surge in mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, or Zika virus raising alarming signs. During monsoons, the prevalence of these mosquito-borne diseases is higher due to factors like heavy rain and frequent fluctuations in the temperature. The moisture in the air accompanied by heavy rainfall can create an ideal ground for pathogens and mosquitoes like Aedes aegypti mosquito to breed.”
Factors leading to the rise in vector-borne diseases
“Eating habits like frequently eating street food can contribute to the spread of these viruses. That is because street food vendors often fall short of maintaining good hygiene practices as they are responsible for cooking in bulk quantities they have to cater to larger crowds. Cooking or preparing food in outer space, especially during the rainy season can successfully attract various germs, bacteria, viruses, and particularly mosquitoes. These pathogens can easily contaminate your food or beverages while heavily affecting your physical health. The issues of water clogging rise in monsoon while elevating the risk of breeding mosquitoes and health complications like chikungunya, cholera, Zika virus, dengue, malaria, and cholera,” said Dr Tandekar.
Ways to combat the situation
Many communities are still unaware of the serious risks these viruses pose and how negatively they can affect an individual’s overall well-being. This is why it is important to take necessary precautions and follow safety measures to prevent the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
Avoid drinking water that has been stored for more than a few days or weeks as it elevates the risk of contamination.
Drinking boiled water can be helpful as it flushes out pathogens present in the water.
Limit eating outdoors and instead opt for home-cooked meals that can help strengthen your immune system to successfully combat these diseases.
Before stepping outdoors ensure that you apply a generous layer of mosquito repellent on your clothes for maximum safety.
Be attentive and immediately consult a doctor if you experience symptoms like vomiting, gas, bloating, indigestion, high fever, cold sweats, body aches, and fatigue.
According to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) officials, this year Pune reported 202 cases of Dengue, 176 cases of Chikungunya and 101 cases of Zika virus. Experts note that these mosquito species can survive in outdoor environments and pose a significant threat to the health of the public. What is leading to such as steep rise in cases in Pune? Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
