With monsoon intensifying, Ernakulam likely to witness spike in infectious diseases

A possible spike in infectious diseases in view of the rapidly intensifying monsoon has prompted the Health authorities in Ernakulam to step up control measures.

They are bracing against vector-borne diseases, including dengue and leptospirosis that have shown a spike since May 1. Two persons had succumbed to dengue fever in Ernakulam over the past four weeks.

The district has recorded a total of over 750 suspected and confirmed dengue cases since May 1. Those who succumbed to the disease include a 72-year-old female from Rayamangalam and a 46-year-old female from Thuravoor. Over 3,900 fever cases were reported at the out-patient and in-patient wings of various hospitals over the last one week, according to official estimates.

According to the Health authorities, there has been a spike in vector breeding in houses. Refrigerator trays, indoor potted plants, and stagnant water collected in plastic sheets were found to be the primary sources in indoor vector breeding.

Dr. Ashadevi, District Medical Officer, said that rainwater stagnation should be prevented on the premises of houses to check vector breeding. She added that source reduction activities should be taken up at the grassroots level with the cooperation of local bodies. Water stored for household purposes should be covered and stored.

The Health department has advised people to protect themselves against mosquito bites using insect repellants and protective clothing. Those involved in dairy farming and indoor cleaning activities should necessarily use protective gumboots and gloves. They can consider taking doxycycline prophylaxis to prevent themselves from contracting leptospirosis.

The advisory said that children as well as adults should ensure that they cleaned their hands and feet with soap if they had waded into rainwater. Children should be prevented from playing in stagnant rain pools. Drinking water should be boiled properly to prevent possible transmission of hepatitis A infection.

Published - May 29, 2025 09:07 pm IST