How puddles of standing rainwater can pose a health risk: Indoor safety tips (Image credit: iStock)
While the monsoon season provides a much-needed refreshment after the intense heat, it also poses some threats to our health and well-being. Among them, monsoon puddles are a serious hazard that is often overlooked. This stagnant water is dangerous as it can lead to accidents, illnesses and other health risks. According to data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India and National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC), emergency departments receive a huge volume of dengue and typhoid cases during the monsoon season. In 2023, there were 485 deaths and 289,235 total cases of dengue across the country.
We got in touch with Dr Muzamil Sultan, Senior Registrar, Intensive Care Medicine, Marengo Asia Hospital Gurugram, who shares how monsoon puddles can pose a risk to your health.
Why can monsoon puddles pose a health risk?
Dr. Muzamil Sultan talks about the health risks associated with monsoon puddles. These include:
1. Mosquito breeding grounds: Puddles of stagnant water provide a suitable breeding ground for mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes species, which transmit diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika virus. These diseases can cause serious health problems such as increased body temperature, arthritis in the joints and, in severe cases, death. Since puddles facilitate the breeding and growth of mosquitoes, they pose a greater concern in places with inadequate drainage systems.
2. Skin infections: If you have open wounds or cuts, exposure to contaminated water from puddles can lead to skin infections. This environment is ideal for the growth of bacteria and fungi, which cause disorders such as ringworm, athlete’s foot, and other skin problems. These infections may require medical attention in certain circumstances and cause itching, redness, and swelling.
3. Waterborne Problems: Contaminated water, which can contain dangerous germs, viruses and parasites, is a common problem in rain puddles. Waterborne diseases such as typhoid fever, gastroenteritis and leptospirosis can result from stepping in this water. The germs that cause leptospirosis can enter the body through scrapes or abrasions on the skin. Symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, muscle aches and, in extreme situations, organ damage.
4. Potential for accidents: Potholes, sharp edges, and slippery surfaces are just some of the hidden dangers of puddles. Stepping into a deep puddle can lead to sprains, fractures, and other injuries. Puddles on roads can cause cars to skid, which can lead to collisions. When driving through areas filled with puddles, vehicles and pedestrians should be careful.
Tips to stay safe
Puddles during monsoons become even more dangerous as they often go unnoticed under water. Therefore, it is essential to stay safe. Dr. Muzamil Sultan shares tips to stay safe. These include:
1. Wear the right footwear: During the rainy season, it is important to wear waterproof footwear with good grip. When walking on wet surfaces, it can help prevent slips and falls. Avoid sandals or open-toed shoes that expose your feet to dirty water. Instead, choose rubber boots or closed-toe shoes to protect your feet from puddle water and reduce the chances of infection.
2. Use mosquito repellents: Wear long sleeves and apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin to protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases. Installing screens on windows and using mosquito nets at night can also help keep insects away. To prevent mosquitoes from breeding, eliminate any sources of standing water around your home, such as empty tires, buckets, and flower pots.
3. Avoid crossing puddles: Despite the temptation to splash around in puddles, it is advisable to stay away from them altogether. There is a greater chance of stepping into contaminated water or hidden dangers when walking through puddles. If you have to cross a puddle, try to find another path or check the depth and safety of the water with a stick before entering.
4. Drive carefully: During the rainy season, it is necessary to drive very carefully, especially when passing through flooded areas. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, reduce speed and do not brake suddenly. Watch out for obstacles or potholes that may be hidden by puddles. Avoid driving through deep water as this can damage your vehicle’s electrical and engine systems.
5. Maintain personal hygiene: It is essential to wash your hands and feet thoroughly with clean water and soap after they come into contact with rainwater or puddles. This reduces the chances of infection and helps remove potential contaminants. To prevent bacteria from entering cuts or scrapes, clean them immediately and cover them with a waterproof material.
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