Telangana issues health advisory over heat and water risks
The state health department warned of risks from water contamination, heat stress and mosquito-borne diseases due to El Nino conditions.
The Telangana health department issued a public health advisory on Tuesday, November 3, warning residents about potential health risks linked to El Nino conditions, including extreme heat, water shortages and dry spells. According to reports from The Hindu and Urban Acres, the advisory covers risks such as water-borne illnesses, heat-related sickness and mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya.
Director of Public Health and Family Welfare Dr B Ravinder Nayak urged the public to consume only boiled or purified water. The advisory suggests boiling water for at least one minute or using filters and chlorine tablets. Residents should avoid drinking from unregulated sources like tankers, surface water bodies or wells without proper purification.
To manage heat, the department recommended wearing light-coloured, loose cotton clothing and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities between noon and 3 pm. People were advised to stay hydrated using buttermilk, lemon water or Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS). The guidance noted that alcohol, sugary carbonated drinks and high caffeine intake can increase fluid loss.
The advisory also addressed food safety and mosquito prevention. Families were cautioned against eating leftovers that have not been refrigerated and told to protect food from rodents. To prevent mosquito breeding, households must wash, scrub and dry water storage containers, such as tanks and buckets, at least once a week.
The state government stated that public health facilities have been prepared for emergencies with special beds, intravenous fluids and essential medicines. ORS sachets have been provided to Anganwadi workers, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) for frontline support.