Shillong, July 17: The District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) of East Khasi Hills has issued a public health advisory urging residents to adopt preventive measures against diseases commonly reported during the monsoon season, including mosquito-borne infections, scrub typhus, water- and food-borne illnesses, and mushroom poisoning.
The advisory called on residents to eliminate stagnant water in and around their homes by clearing discarded tyres, containers and other objects that can serve as mosquito breeding sites. It also recommended the use of mosquito nets and repellents, wearing full-sleeved clothing, particularly during the early morning and evening hours, and avoiding contact with floodwater or contaminated water. Anyone exposed to such water has been advised to wash thoroughly with soap and clean water.
To minimise the risk of food- and water-borne diseases, the health department advised residents to refrigerate cooked food within two hours, reheat it to at least 75°C before consumption, and avoid eating stale or uncovered food. The advisory also emphasised regular handwashing with soap before meals, while preparing food, after using the toilet, and after handling animals.
The department further urged people to maintain clean surroundings and ensure proper waste disposal to prevent rodent infestations. It advised against washing the soiled clothes or linen of diarrhoea patients in or near streams, springs or other drinking water sources. Residents were also asked not to defecate uphill or close to water sources, as rainwater can contaminate drinking water, and to avoid rearing pigs near residential areas wherever possible.
The advisory warned the public against consuming wild or unidentified mushrooms because of the risk of poisoning.
Schools, offices and other institutions have been instructed to conduct regular inspections to remove stagnant water, maintain hygienic premises, ensure access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities, and immediately report any unusual clusters of fever or diarrhoea cases to the nearest health facility.
According to the health department, most monsoon-related illnesses can be prevented through good personal hygiene, proper sanitation, reduced exposure to disease-causing agents and timely medical consultation when symptoms appear.
