Telangana: DPH issues El Niño and drought safety advisory

The Telangana Director of Public Health has issued an advisory amid El Niño conditions and prolonged dry spells, urging safe drinking water practices, hygiene, heat precautions and proper food storage. Public health facilities have also been equipped with essential supplies.

Hyderabad: In the wake of El Niño conditions triggering prolonged dry spells and water shortages, the Director of Public Health and Family Welfare, Telangana, has issued a comprehensive public health advisory on Tuesday, outlining safety measures against water-borne diseases, heat stress, food spoilage and vector-borne risks.

Director of Public Health (DPH), Telangana, Dr B Ravinder Nayak has urged the general public to consume only boiled or purified drinking water, maintain rigorous hand hygiene and avoid unregulated water sources.

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To combat extreme heat, people have been advised to stay hydrated with ORS, buttermilk or lemon water, wear loose cotton garments and avoid outdoor or strenuous activities between 12 noon and 3 pm.

The advisory has also cautioned against consuming unrefrigerated leftovers and failing to secure stored food against rodents.

The DPH has urged families to properly wash and dry water storage containers every week to prevent mosquito breeding and the spread of dengue and chikungunya.

To handle exigencies, the State government has made elaborate arrangements across all public health facilities, stocking special beds, IV fluids and essential medicines, while positioning ORS sachets with ANMs, ASHAs and Anganwadi workers.