Common Diseases After Floods: Symptoms, Treatment, and Preventive Measures

Floods impact many Indian states every year, causing not just destruction of life and property but also triggering a surge in various diseases. The stagnant water, contaminated floodwaters, and poor sanitation create an ideal environment for the rapid spread of harmful bacteria, viruses, and mosquitoes, putting people at risk of serious illnesses. It is crucial to be aware of the health risks and take timely precautions following floods.

Waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, typhoid, hepatitis A, and jaundice are prevalent after floods, primarily spreading through contaminated water and food. Mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue also increase since stagnant floodwaters serve as mosquito breeding grounds. Additionally, people often develop skin and fungal infections from staying in wet clothes or coming into contact with dirty water and soil. Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated water or soil, can also become a threat, alongside respiratory and eye infections.

The symptoms of these diseases vary: diarrhea and cholera may present as frequent watery stools, vomiting, weakness, and dehydration. Typhoid often causes prolonged fever, headaches, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. Hepatitis A and jaundice manifest as yellowing of the skin and eyes, fatigue, and nausea. Malaria and dengue typically produce high fever, headaches, body and muscle pains; dengue can be particularly dangerous due to rapid platelet reduction. Skin infections commonly involve red, itchy rashes or fungal patches. Leptospirosis symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, red eyes, vomiting, jaundice, and kidney problems.

Treatment requires immediate medical attention. Diarrhea and cholera are managed with oral rehydration salts and ensuring clean water intake. Malaria and dengue require prescribed medications and careful monitoring, while hepatitis A typically involves rest and liver care. Skin and fungal infections respond well to antifungal creams and medicines. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are essential to prevent complications.

To protect against post-flood illnesses, always drink boiled or filtered water and avoid consuming food exposed to contamination. Change out of wet clothes promptly and keep yourself dry. Use mosquito nets and wear full-coverage clothing to minimize mosquito bites. Maintain cleanliness in your surroundings to discourage mosquito breeding by eliminating stagnant water or treating it with organic oils or kerosene. Special attention should be given to children and the elderly, who are more vulnerable. At any sign of unusual symptoms, seeking medical consultation immediately can be lifesaving.