DHSK issues health advisory to prevent water-borne diseases, respiratory tract infections

Srinagar: The Department of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK) has issued a health advisory to prevent water-borne diseases and respiratory tract infections in view of the incessant rains and snowfall in the valley.

According to the advisory, the DHSK said the incessant rains for the last few days, could anticipate an increase in respiratory tract infections and water-borne diseases.

Hence, people are advised to take precautions to reduce the impact of rains on health of people and prevent outbreaks.

''Keep your children warm. Drink boiled water to prevent diarrhoea, typhoid, dysentery and viral hepatitis-A. Water should be boiled for five minutes before consumption,'' the advisory said.

People were advised to wash their hands properly with soap and water before eating food and after using the toilet.

''Avoid defecation and urination in open spaces to prevent contamination of water sources. Cook your food properly and avoid consuming raw vegetables. Chlorination of water can be done using one tablet chlorine (0.5 mg) in 20 litre of water and water can be used after 30 minutes,'' it further said.

There is an increased risk of dermatitis, conjunctivitis infection, ear, nose and throat infection through direct contact with polluted water. Therefore, avoid contact with polluted water and wear protective clothes and shoes while going out in water, it added.

Moderate to heavy snowfall continued for the second successive day in Srinagar, Gulmarg and other parts of Kashmir valley, disrupting normal life.