Washim health officer urges precautions as changing weather raises risk of mosquito-borne diseases

The changing weather in Washim district, with mosquitoes breeding and filth accumulating, could lead to the spread of various diseases. Against this backdrop, Dr Mobin Khan, the epidemic diseases officer and District Malaria Officer, has appealed to people to take special care of their health, keep their surroundings clean and consult a doctor as soon as symptoms of illness appear.

According to Dr Khan, conditions favourable to mosquito breeding can develop after rain and during the change of season. With the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria, it is essential for people to take preventive measures. Water should not be allowed to collect around homes, on rooftops, in tyres, in flower pots or anywhere else. Water tanks and vessels should be kept covered, and the surroundings should be cleaned regularly.

The department has said that anyone who develops symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, body ache, vomiting or diarrhoea should go to a nearby government health centre or hospital for tests instead of taking medicines on their own. According to the department, timely testing and proper treatment help reduce the severity of the illness and its complications.

People have been asked to use clean and safe drinking water. Food should be kept covered, and hands should be washed thoroughly with soap before eating and after using the toilet. Special care has also been advised for the health of children, the elderly and pregnant women.

To protect against mosquitoes, people have been advised to wear full-sleeved clothing and use mosquito repellents as needed. Stagnant water in and around homes should be drained. Drains, gutters and places with dirty water should be kept clean. People should not throw garbage in public places or leave in the open items in which water can collect.

Officials said public participation is important in preventing disease. Citizens have been asked to cooperate with the cleanliness and awareness campaigns run by the health department and local administration.

District Malaria Officer Dr Mobin Khan said that cleanliness, safe water, mosquito control and timely medical tests must be given priority for prevention. He appealed to people to stay alert, follow the health department's advisories and help keep the health of their families and neighbourhoods safe.