Telangana Health department has issued a public advisory urging citizens to take precautionary measures during the ongoing monsoon season, following forecasts of widespread rainfall across the State over the next week.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Telangana is likely to receive light to moderate rainfall in most areas while several districts may experience heavy rain. Isolated places are also expected to witness thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds.

Director of Public Health and Family Welfare B. Ravinder Nayak said the prevailing weather conditions, marked by lower temperatures and increased humidity, could lead to a rise in seasonal illnesses, particularly vector-borne, waterborne and airborne diseases.

To prevent mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue and chikungunya, the department has advised residents to install mosquito screens on doors and windows, use mosquito nets over beds and cribs, apply mosquito repellents and ensure that drains and septic tanks are properly maintained to prevent water stagnation and mosquito breeding. Citizens have also been urged to observe a ‘Friday Dry Day’ by clearing stagnant water in and around their homes on that day.

The advisory stressed the importance of preventing waterborne diseases such as acute gastroenteritis, jaundice and typhoid by consuming filtered or boiled water, washing hands regularly, particularly before and after meals, and avoiding stale food sold outside.

To curb the spread of airborne infections, including seasonal viral fevers and influenza, residents have been advised to avoid shaking hands when sick or when interacting with unwell individuals, use hand sanitisers frequently and cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.

The department further advised people experiencing flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, headache and body aches to seek treatment at the nearest government health facility without delay.

As part of precautionary measures, the government has made elaborate arrangements by providing special beds, IV fluids and essential medicines at all public health facilities. Medicines and ORS sachets are available with ANMs, ASHAs and Anganwadi workers to meet any emergencies, the advisory said.