With Rains Ahead, Telangana Health Dept Warns of Dengue, Viral Fever Surge
Hyderabad: The Telangana Health department has issued a public health advisory in response to the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) forecast of light to moderate rainfall across the State over the next seven days. The advisory, released on Sunday, cautions residents against a likely increase in seasonal illnesses, including mosquito-borne diseases and viral infections.
The Director of Public Health and Family Welfare stated that heavy rainfall alerts have been issued for several districts during the next three days. “Such weather conditions are expected to bring lower temperatures and higher humidity, which could trigger an increase in seasonal diseases,” the advisory noted.
Health officials have urged citizens to take precautionary measures against malaria, dengue, and chikungunya. These include using mosquito nets and repellents, ensuring proper drainage to prevent water stagnation, and covering septic tanks with mesh to block mosquito breeding. Residents have also been advised to observe a ‘Friday-Dry Day’ every week to eliminate stagnant water around homes and workplaces.
The department has further advised people experiencing flu-like symptoms – such as cough with fever, headache, sore throat, and body pains – to visit the nearest government health facility without delay. In case of a medical emergency, the 108 ambulance service remains available for residents across the State.
Highlighting the government’s preparedness, the advisory said special beds, intravenous fluids, and essential medicines have been arranged at public health facilities. Medicines and oral rehydration solution (ORS) sachets have been distributed to ANMs, ASHAs, and Anganwadi workers to meet any exigencies.
Health experts note that rainfall and humidity create ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed, increasing the risk of vector-borne diseases. Viral infections such as influenza and other respiratory illnesses also tend to spread during such weather shifts. Public health officials stressed that early detection and timely treatment are critical in managing these conditions.
The advisory is part of a broader seasonal preparedness effort. Last year, Telangana recorded a significant number of dengue cases during the monsoon months. With forecasts of continuous rain, the health department’s message is aimed at reducing the disease burden through community participation and swift action.
Residents are encouraged to cooperate with district health teams conducting fever surveys and vector control activities. Officials have also appealed to local bodies to ensure that drains are desilted and public spaces are kept free of waterlogging.
The health department will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates as necessary. Citizens are urged to stay informed and follow the advisory to protect themselves and their families from seasonal illnesses.
