DHSK issues health advisory amid rain

Excelsior correspondent

Srinagar, Apr 29: As heavy rains continue in Kashmir, the Health Ministry today issued a health advisory, urging people to take precautionary measures to protect themselves from water-borne diseases and reduce health risks associated with floods.
The advisory has been issued by the State Surveillance Unit, IDSP Kashmir, which comes under the control of the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir (DHSK).
The guidelines emphasize water purification and urge people to boil or chlorinate water intended for drinking, cooking, utensils and hand washing.
“Water must be brought to a boil before consumption (for at least 10 minutes). Suspicious changes in taste, color or odor of water may indicate contamination,” the report said.
With regard to food safety, the advisory requires that any food products or edibles that have come into contact with floodwaters should be discarded to avoid contamination.
In terms of sanitation, emphasis is placed on disposing of feces from water sources and avoiding defecation in the open. “Items soaked in flood water that cannot be thoroughly cleaned should be discarded.”
In terms of hygiene practices, the general public is advised to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after direct contact with flood water, before eating and after using the toilet.
The advisory emphasized that individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, dysentery, vomiting, abdominal pain, rash or itching should immediately seek medical attention at the nearest healthcare facility.
“These precautions are essential to protect public health during periods of heavy rainfall and flooding. Remain vigilant and prioritize personal hygiene to minimize the risk of water-borne diseases,” IDSP said.