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The recent temperature surge has caused gut issues in people of all ages, particularly children and the elderly. Food tends to spoil faster in the summer, often due to neglect. The consumption of spoiled food and unsafe water, allows harmful bacteria to enter the body and cause diarrhoea.
When diarrhoea occurs, the body loses water and salts at an accelerated rate, resulting in dehydration. Severe dehydration can be life-threatening, making timely treatment crucial.
According to health department statistics, 30,577 cases of diarrhoea have been recorded in the state from January 2024 to March 17, with an average of nearly 4,000 cases reported per week. By the end of February, the number of cases rose to 13,000, and now climbing to 30,000. The number is expected to rise further by the end of March.
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Symptoms of diarrhoea include dry mouth, fatigue, decreased urination, lethargy, frequent bowel movements, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dehydration, weight loss, high fever, and flatulence.
Measures to reduce diarrhoea include:
- Consuming natural fruit juice and a liquid diet,
- Consuming boiled and cooled water
- Drinking ORS regularly to avoid dehydration
- Consuming fibre-rich vegetables,
- Prioritizing proper hygiene practices including frequent hand washing,
- Eating home-cooked food,
- Consuming fresh water and lemon water,
- Avoiding stale food, and artificial sweeteners.