Hospitals in Srinagar report a twofold increase in patients with diarrhea, fever, typhoid, and skin infections as persistent rainfall leads to contaminated water, damp conditions, and heightened risk of rain-borne diseases across the Kashmir Valley; doctors urge strict hygiene, safe drinking water, and dietary precautions to curb the growing health crisis

Peerzada Ummer

Srinagar: As relentless rains sweep through the Kashmir Valley for over a week, hospitals and clinics are witnessing a sharp surge in cases of seasonal diseases. Residents across the region, including the capital city Srinagar, are grappling with a doubling of patients suffering from ailments such as diarrhea, fever, typhoid, and various skin infections.

Officials at Srinagar Medical College said that the number of people seeking medical attention for rain-related illnesses has risen dramatically in recent days. “Earlier, we would see around 20 to 25 patients daily for these conditions. However, on Monday alone, about 50 patients visited the hospital complaining of symptoms linked to rain-borne diseases.The majority of these cases involve children and adults presenting with high fever, gastrointestinal issues, or skin allergies, many of which are attributed to prolonged exposure to wet clothing and waterlogged environments,” a senior medical officer said.

Continuous rainfall, both day and night, has created ideal conditions for the spread of such diseases. Dampness, poor sanitation, and contaminated water sources are exacerbating the situation, leading to more cases of fungal infections and waterborne illnesses.

In response to the uptick in cases, doctors are urging the public to remain vigilant and adopt simple yet effective precautions. “Personal hygiene is paramount. People should change out of wet clothes as soon as possible and ensure that both clothes and shoes are dried thoroughly to prevent skin infections,” said a physician at Srinagar Medical College.

Medical professionals stress about the importance of hand hygiene, recommending regular washing with soap and water, particularly after using the restroom and before meals. Given the risk of contaminated water, residents are advised to drink only boiled or filtered water and avoid consuming cold beverages from outside, as ice may also be contaminated.

The medical community is also cautioning against eating street food and loose fruits or vegetables, which may not be properly washed or cooked. “A well-cooked, balanced diet helps in maintaining a robust immune system,” doctors say, suggesting the inclusion of immunity-boosting foods like basil, ginger, turmeric, and amla.

Doctors and health officials are also reminding the public to use umbrellas or raincoats when venturing outside and to wear clothing that covers the skin to prevent exposure. Keeping homes and surroundings clean is crucial, especially areas where water tends to accumulate, as stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other disease-carrying insects.

The health department is closely monitoring the situation and has urged citizens to report any symptoms of fever, diarrhea, or skin problems promptly to local health centers.