Health Department Issues Advisory for Prevention of Vomiting-Diarrhea, Fever, and Snakebites During Monsoon

Advisory Issued for Monsoon Health Concerns

Correspondent: Raja Hatim Beg, The Cliff News | Guna | September 5, 2026

Amidst changing weather patterns and the onset of the monsoon, the Health Department has released a detailed advisory for public safety, anticipating a rise in health issues such as vomiting-diarrhea, fever, and snakebites.

Under the directives of Collector Kishor Kumar Kanyal, Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr. Rajkumar Rishishwar highlighted that these diseases are prevalent during the monsoon, primarily due to contaminated drinking water and stale food.

Preventing Monsoon-Related Illnesses

CMHO Dr. Rishishwar emphasized that rainwater can contaminate drinking water sources like rivers, streams, and wells, leading to gastrointestinal problems. Similarly, consuming contaminated or stale food can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

The most effective preventive measure is to boil drinking water for at least 10-15 minutes and then allow it to cool. Maintaining personal hygiene is also crucial; hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after using the toilet.

Key preventive measures include:

• Always consume fresh and hot food.
• Keep food covered to protect it from germs.
• Avoid using water from rivers, ponds, or open wells under any circumstances.
• Be cautious of sweets, cut fruits, and vegetables sold openly in the market, as they can be harmful.
• Do not litter or spread dirt around drinking water sources.

Managing Vomiting and Diarrhea

In cases of vomiting and diarrhea, immediate treatment involves consuming an Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). To prepare the ORS, boil and cool 1 liter of clean water, then mix one ORS packet into it.

It is essential to use this solution within 24 hours, preparing a fresh batch each time. This immediate rehydration is critical to prevent dehydration.

Preventing Fever and Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Fever is also common during the monsoon, often spread by mosquito bites. Stagnant water in various places during this season breeds larvae of mosquitoes that transmit malaria, dengue, and other fevers.

The department urges citizens to prevent water stagnation in and around their homes and ensure proper drainage of accumulated water. Individuals experiencing fever should seek immediate medical consultation at the nearest sub-health center, primary health center, community health center, civil hospital, or district hospital for diagnosis and treatment.

Preventing and Responding to Snakebites

During the monsoon, snakes tend to emerge from their habitats, increasing the risk of snakebite incidents. To prevent bites, wear closed-toe shoes when going outdoors.

Use a flashlight when venturing out at night and thoroughly check any place before putting your hands or feet. Avoid sleeping on the floor and use a mosquito net. Keeping homes and surroundings clean helps control the rat population, which serves as a food source for snakes.

In the event of a snakebite, it is crucial to remain calm rather than panic. The department clarifies that snakebite is treatable, and immediate medical assistance should be sought instead of resorting to superstitions or folk remedies.

Attempts to catch or kill the snake should be avoided. Harmful practices like cutting the bite area, sucking the wound, applying a tourniquet, using ice, or massaging the area must be avoided. Do not use any herbs or home remedies, as they are ineffective and waste valuable time.

In case of a snakebite, the patient must be taken to the nearest primary health center, community health center, civil hospital, or district hospital without delay. Anti-snake venom (antivenom) is available at all these medical facilities and can be life-saving. Timely and correct treatment can prevent fatal outcomes from snakebites.