Ailments due to contaminated water increase

Apart from Ariyalur, Dharmapuri, Villupuram and Virudhunagar, the city has also recorded outbreaks of acute-diarrheal diseases, typhoid and food-poisoning mainly due to water contamination.

“Cases of diarrhoea are common among paediatrics with around 10 cases being registered at the Institute of Child Health every week. Several are using unpotable or contaminated water while cooking or for drinking as the water scarcity has become a major problem. But it can be prevented if people use boiled water for drinking and also for cooking,” said director of ICH, Arasar Seeralar.

There have been 25 cases of typhoid, 11 cases of acute-diarrheal diseases, and around 10 cases of food poisoning reported within a week in the city hospitals.

The Food Safety Department had recently inspected bubble top water cans being sold and seized several cans of expired water. Doctors have warned against consumption of roadside food and drinks pointing out that it would increase the risk of typhoid,diarrhoea, paratyphoid, cholera and gastroenteritis.

“There are many patients admitted to hospitals after consuming food that contained contaminated water. Though fruits and vegetables are good for health, they should be washed in hot water if they are to be consumed raw. Drinks from roadside shops should be avoided, particularly those mixed with ice. Bacteria grow better in low temperature and chances are high that ice is not made from clean water,” said Dr Narayana Swami, medical superintendent, Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital.