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As many parts of Delhi-NCR continue to stumble from a flood-like situation after the water level in Yamuna rose to an all-time high, residents of these areas are exposed to several health-related risk factors. Health experts told News18 that the recent floods pose significant health risks to residents, especially those who live along the river banks. One of the biggest concerns is that standing water becomes a breeding ground for insects and mosquitoes, providing space for the growth of bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
Waterlogging also increases the risk of contracting waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid fever, dysentery, Zika, dengue fever, and hepatitis.
“Stagnous water can become a breeding ground for pathogenic organisms increasing the risk of cholera, typhoid, dysentery and hepatitis A,” Dr. Manjita Nath Das, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine at Narayana Super Specialty Hospital, Gurugram, told News18.
Dr Nitin Rathi, senior consultant pulmonologist, at Dharamshila Narayana Superspeciality Hospital in Delhi, said contaminated water can enter the drinking water supply, leading to the spread of infection.
Echoing similar concerns, Rathi said waterlogging creates favorable breeding conditions for mosquitoes, which increase the spread of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever and the Zika virus.
Asthma, allergies and fungal infections
According to doctors, prolonged exposure to humid environments can lead to respiratory problems including allergies, asthma, and bronchitis.
Mold growth and increased humidity contribute to the release of airborne allergens and respiratory irritants.
Rathi explained that frequent contact with waterlogged areas can cause various skin infections, such as fungal infections, dermatitis, and cellulitis.
“Bacteria and fungi thrive in moist conditions, and when they come into contact with broken or weakened skin, infections can occur,” he said.
Apart from physical ailments, such conditions make people susceptible to mental illnesses as well.
Aishwarya Raj, a clinical psychologist, explained that constant waterlogging can lead to high levels of anxiety and stress.
“The uncertainty and turmoil caused by surrounding floods can create feelings of helplessness and insecurity, leaving individuals feeling overwhelmed,” she said.
Raj added that this could cause people to experience fear and trauma because of the potential risks associated with waterlogging, such as fear of being trapped, losing possessions, or fear of contracting waterborne diseases.
“In areas affected by waterlogging, people may be isolated from their usual social networks,” she said, adding that “it is important to note that the effect of waterlogging on mental health can vary from person to person.”
what should be done?
The first rule is to avoid contact with standing water and make sure it does not touch food or utensils.
According to Dr. Kamal Verma, Senior Consultant, Department of Internal Medicine, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, residents must boil water to ensure its safety for drinking purposes.
“Apply mosquito repellent creams and use mosquito nets at home,” said Dr. Verma.
Das of Narayana Super Specialty Hospital also advised people to maintain personal hygiene, which includes frequent hand washing with soap and clean water.
One way to protect against mosquito-related diseases is to eliminate standing water around living areas to prevent mosquito breeding apart from wearing long sleeves and pants.
Also, waterlogging can obscure hazards below the surface, leading to accidental injuries such as slipping, falling, or drowning.
“Be wary of hidden debris, open manholes, or exposed drains. If you must be in waterlogged areas, use appropriate safety equipment and follow directions provided by local authorities,” warned Nath.
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