hurricaneThese are not only natural disasters that cause physical damage but also bring with them various health risks. With Cyclone Dana approaching Odisha and Kolkata, it is important to be aware of the common diseases associated with these storms and preventive measures to avoid them. Heavy rainfall has been predicted in six districts, and according to the Indian Meteorological Department, the low pressure over the Bay of Bengal may turn into a cyclonic storm in the next two days and cause heavy rainfall as it is expected to make landfall. on October 24 over coastal states. Cyclone related diseases These generally result from exposure to contaminated water, poor hygiene and the spread of vector-borne diseases.

Here are some of the most common cyclone-related illnesses to watch out for:

Cyclones cause heavy rainfall and flooding, which often contaminates drinking water supplies with harmful pathogens. As a result, waterborne diseases become a major threat during and after cyclones.

– Cholera: Cholera, caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria, spreads through contaminated water and food. It causes severe diarrhea and dehydration and can be fatal without proper treatment.

Typhoid fever: This bacterial infection is spread through food and water contaminated with feces. Symptoms include high fever, stomach pain and weakness.

– Dysentery: Both bacterial and amoebic dysentery are common in flood-affected areas. Symptoms include severe diarrhea, stomach cramps, and sometimes blood in the stool.

How to protect yourself: To keep waterborne diseases at bay, drink only boiled or bottled water and ensure proper hygiene practices. Avoid eating street food or anything that has come in contact with flood water.

Stagnant water left due to cyclones becomes an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, which can lead to an increase in vector-borne diseases.

– Malaria: Mosquitoes that breed in stagnant water can carry the Plasmodium parasite, which causes malaria. Symptoms include high fever, chills and body aches.

– Dengue fever: Another mosquito-borne disease, dengue is common due to stagnation of water after cyclones. It causes high fever, joint pain, rash, and in severe cases, bleeding.

– Chikungunya: Like dengue, chikungunya is spread by mosquitoes and causes fever and severe joint pain.

How to protect yourself: Use mosquito repellents, wear long-sleeved clothes and sleep under mosquito nets. Make sure standing water around your home is drained or treated with larvicides.

3. Respiratory infection

Cyclones often cause increased humidity, overcrowding in shelters, and poor ventilation, which contribute to the spread of respiratory infections.

– Pneumonia: This lung infection can develop after exposure to cold, wet conditions. Symptoms include fever, cough and difficulty breathing.

– Bronchitis: Inhalation of dust, debris and pollutants raised by cyclone winds can cause inflammation in the lungs, leading to bronchitis. Symptoms include cough and chest discomfort.

How to protect yourself: To avoid respiratory infections, stay dry, maintain hygiene in crowded shelters, and wear a mask if dust or pollutants are present in the air.

Flood water is often contaminated with harmful bacteria and chemicals, which can lead to skin infections, especially when people walk through standing water.

– Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection resulting in redness, swelling and pain, usually after exposure to contaminated water.

– Fungal Infections: Prolonged exposure to wet conditions can cause fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, especially in humid environments.

How to protect yourself: Keep skin clean and dry, avoid walking in flood water if possible and treat any cuts or wounds immediately to prevent infection.

The stress and trauma of surviving a cyclone and its aftermath can take a toll on mental health. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common after such events.

How to protect yourself: Try to stay connected with family and community to manage stress. Join support groups if necessary.

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