Uttarakhand: Diarrhea cases on rise with onset of summer season

HARIDWAR: With increase in temperature and humidity, several infants and schoolchildren have come under the grip of diarrhea in Uttarakhand.
Almost all district hospitals especially in the plain districts of Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar and Dehradun have seen around 20-25% increase in diarrhea patients in the out-patients departments (OPDs).
Doctors said that most of the children are suffering from acute dehydration.Dr KK Tamta, chief medical officer of Government Doon Medical College Hospital, said, “We have been receiving a lot of cases of dizziness, dehydration and diarrhea with the onset of summer. These ailments can be kept at bay with proper intake of water and by eating a lot of fruits.”
Doctors said that with increase in temperature and humidity, microbial activities escalate and it may result in severe gastroenteritis and stomach infections.
Residents have also been urged to identify the symptoms of water and food-borne ailments such as jaundice, typhoid etc and get immediate treatment.
Hridwar chief medical officer Dr Premlal said, “Carrying umbrella is not sufficient. If possible, avoid sending children out in summer as heat stroke may lead to several other problems. Also, people suffering from heart ailments should remain extra careful.”