the goan I network
PANAJI
To cope with outbreaks of common illnesses associated with the onset of the monsoon, Dr Vijay Naik has advocated local communities to be observant as to symptoms and cautious about hygiene both personal and of the environment around.
A senior physician at the Healthway Hospital, Naik said with the monsoon several common and sometimes deadly air and water-borne diseases plague local communities which need to be nipped early with timely medical intervention.
Diarrhea, gastroenteritis, malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya, typhoid, hepatitis-A and common cold are some diseases which can play havoc during the monsoon if medical intervention is neglected.
Viral fever which typically induces fatigue, chills, body aches and irregular fever, is a common ailment of the monsoon season and is caused by sudden weather changes, Dr Naik said.
It is contagious spreading through infected droplets in the air, physical contact infected persons and typically lasts between 3-7 days.
“Washing hands often and eating vitamin rich foods boosts immunity and reduces chances catching a viral infection,” Naik said.
Preventive measures for diseases like dengue fever, chikungunya and malaria according to Dr Naik is to clear out surfaces or containers where water could accumulate and stagnate in the areas around, and use of mosquito repellents, nets and wearing clothes which cover the body.
Hand hygiene, cough etiquette, avoiding crowded areas, balancing diet, drinking clean water, washing and cooking vegetables well, are some simple mantras which if followed could go a long way to help stay healthy through the monsoon, Dr Naik added.
He said, prevention and early detection is crucial but primary health intervention is also key to ensure public health. Healthway Hospitals Goa, will consider reinforcing primary healthcare in the areas where it operates, he added.
