Amid Health risks due to floods, SKIMS issues advisory
Srinagar, Sep 4: Relentless rains and run-off into waterbodies has given rise to concerns of water-borne diseases, especially among children.
In view of the situation, doctors have sounded caution, while the Department of Community Medicine at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) has released a comprehensive public health advisory to mitigate flood-related health risks.
The SKIMS advisory, titled "Public Health Advisory – Flood-Related Precautions," has emphasised and outlined steps under seven key areas to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases, injuries, and mental health issues during the crisis.
People have been urged to consume only boiled or chlorinated water, ensuring that water is rolling boil for at least five minutes. Access to clean drinking water is compromised during g floods and the advisory has taken this issue to impress the need to ensure safety in water. Earlier an advisory was issued in late August by health authorities specifically on drinking water safety amid initial flood warnings.
Other sections of the SKIMS advisory include Food Safety. ""Eat freshly cooked, hot food, avoid raw vegetables, cut fruits, or uncovered items; discard food contacted by floodwater; store dry rations elevated" reads the advisory.
SKIMS has also advised people affected by floods to ensure they are not bitten by insects to prevent vector borne diseases in areas where such a threat exists.
Flood waters also tend to have a risk of triggering skin conditions. "Maintain personal hygiene; wash hands with soap after defecation and before meals; avoid wading in floodwater or wear rubber boots if unavoidable" reads the advisory .
The advisory has also touched upon mental health noting that children are nore susceptible to anxiety and effects of uncertainties and risk. "Reassure children and the elderly; provide emotional support; seek mental health services for anxiety, depression, or trauma."
