AP Steps Up Health Measures in Cyclone-Hit Areas

Vijayawada:Andhra Pradesh health authorities have directed district medical and health officers (DMHOs) to intensify preventive measures to protect people in cyclone-affected areas from disease outbreaks following severe Cyclone Arnab.

As part of the measures, health personnel, in coordination with officials from the Rural Water Supply (RWS) Department, will chlorinate drinking water in affected villages and overhead storage tanks to prevent contamination.

Health assistants will collect water samples and send them for testing to RWS Department laboratories and regional laboratories in the districts. Test results are expected within 24 hours. Personnel equipped with chloroscopes will also check whether water stored in overhead tanks has been adequately chlorinated after they are refilled.

The measures are aimed at preventing water-borne diseases caused by contamination from floodwater and drainage water mixing with drinking water supplies. People have also been advised to consume boiled and cooled water as a precaution.

Health authorities are monitoring cases of viral fevers, particularly malaria and dengue, in affected villages. Medical camps will be organised to examine people showing symptoms and provide treatment.

Existing health camps at cyclone relief centres will continue to provide healthcare to displaced residents. Fresh medical camps will be established in villages wherever necessary, particularly if more people develop health problems following exposure to the cyclone.

Health officials are also monitoring women in the advanced stages of pregnancy who are expected to deliver in the coming days. They will be allowed to remain at health centres, where they were shifted during the cyclone to ensure safe deliveries.

Nearly 3,100 pregnant women were shifted to nearby health centres, of whom 367 have delivered, according to officials.

Emergency transport services, including 108 and 104 vehicles and private ambulances, have been mobilised and kept ready to respond to medical emergencies.

Director of Health Dr R. Venkata Ramana said health authorities had additional responsibilities to fulfil even after the cyclone moved away.

“Our task continues after the cyclone moves away. We have to take care of the health of people in affected villages, and our health officers and personnel have been instructed to protect their well-being,” he said.