Infections follow in wake of floods across Punjab

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, September 24

Floods pave the way for outbreaks of various infections and early recognition of symptoms, timely medical consultation and strict preventive measures can save lives, says Dr Chander Bowry, Medical Director and Consultant Physician at Innocent Heart’s Superspeciality Hospital, Jalandhar.

As Punjab had just begun to see a decline in vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue towards the end of August, heavy rainfall and widespread flooding struck several districts. Beyond the devastation — including the loss of lives, homes and livelihoods — the stagnant water left behind has created an ideal breeding ground for both vector-borne (mosquitoes and ticks) and water-borne diseases.

Common illnesses post-flood

Among the most commonly reported infections after floods are malaria and dengue (vector-borne), as well as cholera, typhoid, dysentery, hepatitis A and E, giardiasis, E. coli infection, cryptosporidiosis and norovirus (water-borne). While each of these conditions presents with specific symptoms, there are some common warning signs: fever, body aches, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, loose stools, yellowing of the eyes and loss of appetite.

Dr Bowry said people who have recently travelled during heavy rains, consumed food or drinks from outside or unhygienic sources or stayed in flood-affected or waterlogged areas should be especially vigilant if they develop any of these symptoms.

When to seek help

At the first sign of illness, patients must consult a general practitioner without delay. Initial assessments such as a general physical examination, monitoring of temperature and basic blood tests should be carried out promptly. Treatment should begin immediately, especially to address dehydration and fever. If malaria or dengue is suspected, specific targeted treatment should be initiated without waiting for advanced results.

Signs that demand care

Dr Bowry highlights ten warning signs that require immediate medical attention: high-grade fever, persistent vomiting, severe loose motions, dizziness or fainting (which may indicate low blood pressure), cough, shortness of breath or chest pain (suggestive of respiratory infections like pneumonia often linked to damp shelters), unusual muscle pain (particularly in the back or legs), reduced or dark-coloured urine, yellowing of the eyes, confusion or altered mental state and skin rashes or sores, which could be bacterial or fungal in origin.

Simple steps to stay safe

To avoid falling ill during or after flooding, residents are advised to avoid eat ing food from roadside stalls or unhygienic sources, drink only boiled or filtered water, wash hands thoroughly before meals, use mosquito repellents and sleep under protective nets. People should also avoid raw vegetables and cut fruits sold in the open, and stay away from stagnant or damp areas whenever possible.

Dr Bowry stresses floods bring not only physical destruction but also trigger serious health risks that can persist long after waters recede. Recognising symptoms early, seeking timely medical attention and adopting strict hygiene and preventive habits can make a significant difference in protecting lives.

A call to rebuild, support

In a heartfelt appeal, Dr Bowry urges all Punjabis to contribute to ‘Mission Chardi Kala’ — whether through financial donations, volunteering as part of a medical support team, helping with reconstruction or joining local clean-up drives. He said collective effort would ensure the state emerges from this crisis stronger, more resilient and filled with renewed hope.

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