Health department steps up screening, treatment for infectious diseases

 

The state has largely been spared of any outbreak of diseases due to incessant rains following precautionary measures launched by authorities. Nevertheless, doctors advice people to exercise precautions.

 

The mobile medical units headed by a doctor will visit the areas affected by the deluge and treat people after screening them. In addition about 14 health units under a health inspector have also been formed to sensitise people on the precautions to be taken to fend off infections and to distribute medicines at the door steps of the infected. "They will screen people for fever, cold, cough, stomach ailments and give medicines. They will also ensure bleaching powder is sprayed in water tanks and insist upon people to drink boiled water," a senior official said.

 

"Protecting the children and elders at this time is very crucial. While one can be given the shots to protect oneself from H1N1 (swine flu), vaccination could be administered to safeguard oneself from pneumonia," says Dr R. Sundararaman, senior consultant physician, SIMS Hospital, here. Those living in or around water-logging areas could take vaccine for cholera and typhoid. "People, particularly the children should wash their hands well before and after eating. One should drink boiled water and watch out for any kind of fungal infection between the toes," he adds.