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Common communicable diseases during festive times ahead

July 26, 2021
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Indians are referred to as Utsav Priyah or festival lovers. The word Utsav (comes from the Sanskrit word Stavan) refers to an event or a series of events that is overflowing with joy. Festivals have always been laced with fanfare and extravaganza, with socializing being the hallmark of the celebration. To most Indians, this is what a truly festive season entails. However, the fear of COVID-19 has dampened the festive spirit since, the previous year. We must be extra cautious as we approach the festival season, which is also conducive to the spread of other communicable diseases.

Let's look at a few of the most common communicable diseases:

1. Malaria

Almost the entire Indian population is at risk of contracting malaria (almost 95 %). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India accounts for 77 % of all malaria cases in Southeast Asia. Keeping mosquitoes at bay by wearing clothing that covers the entire body and using mosquito repellents may be the best way to combat the disease.

2. Typhoid

A water-borne monsoon disease is spread by contaminated water and unsanitary food preparation methods. Typhoid is caused by the Styptic bacteria, which thrives in unhygienic and dirty conditions. Typhoid is dangerous because it can often live in a person's gallbladder despite treatment. Fever, abdominal pain, and severe headaches are all symptoms of infection. It is recommended that proper hygiene and sanitation be maintained, as well as the use of clean water.

3. Hepatitis

The inflammation of the liver is referred to as hepatitis. It can be caused by viruses (five different viruses called A, B, C, D, and E cause viral Hepatitis), bacterial infections, or long-term exposure to alcohol, drugs, or toxic chemicals like those found in aerosol sprays and paint thinners. General weakness and fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, fever, abdominal pain, and tenderness are some of the most common symptoms.

4. Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis, or TB, may sound like a disease of the past, but it is still a real threat today. Tuberculosis is India's most serious public health issue. It is estimated that 500,000 people die each year as a result of this disease, while a similar number of people are cured. Poor diet, overcrowding, and a lack of knowledge all increase the likelihood of developing the disease.

Apart from the above-mentioned diseases, jaundice, leptospirosis, amoebiasis, brucellosis, hookworm infection, influenza, filariasis, and tuberculosis are a few other common diseases.

Few tips to stay safe during festive times :

Follow all precautions - It goes without saying, but most people do not care much when it comes to taking preventative measures. Wearing a mask and regularly washing your hands are two basic precautions you should take to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
Do not ignore any symptoms - Even the mildest symptoms should not be dismissed as "seasonal flu" or "common cold." This is not only because you may endanger others, but also because your body may be more vulnerable to COVID-19 if your immunity is weakened due to another infection.
Avoid assumptions - People have a common assumption that they will not become ill, and as a result, they are careless. Making assumptions about the disease or the virus's behavior can be extremely dangerous. Consult with a doctor and get the best advice possible.
Refrain from eating outside - It is recommended that you avoid eating outside during the festival, not only because of the risk of COVID-19 but also because such food can cause other stomach infections, affecting your immunity and overall health. Also, at a festival, there's nothing like a home-cooked, traditional meal, right?

Festivals, like most things in 2020, will look and feel nearly identical this year as well. However, with proper preparation and caution, you can still enjoy the festival with the same joy and fun.