Delhi Flood: As Yamuna Water Level Rises In Delhi; Health Risks You Should Be Aware Of

Delhi Flood: Different parts of the country are facing the wrath of monsoon as heavy rainfall has led to waterlogging in different regions, leading to disturbances in daily lives. The Yamuna River in Delhi crossed the danger mark on Tuesday, and according to the latest update, it swelled to the highest recorded level in 10 years and is likely to rise even further.

The rising levels of the Yamuna River have led to major health concerns for people living in and around those areas. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), standing flood waters can spread infectious diseases, contain chemical hazards, and cause injuries. Here are some health hazards of rising water levels of Yamuna in Delhi that you should be aware of.

Water-Borne Illnesses

1. Diarrhoea

According to the CDC, the germs that cause diarrhoea are commonly spread by food or water that has been contaminated with human or animal poop. This contamination can occur in the environment because of inadequate sanitation and inadequate protection of drinking water sources and food products. Contamination can also happen in the home through unsafe water storage and poor hygiene.

2. Cholera

It is a virulent disease which can cause severe acute watery diarrhoea. It is spread through contaminated water and if left untreated, cholera can be fatal within hours, even in previously healthy people. The Mayo Clinic states that when a person consumes contaminated food or water, the bacteria release a toxin in the intestines that produces severe diarrhoea.

3. Dysentery

It is a gastrointestinal disease which is caused by bacterial or parasitic infections. Dysentery is an infection in your intestines that causes bloody diarrhoea. It can be caused by a parasite or bacteria.

4. Typhoid

Typhoid is a common water-borne illness that can spread throughout the body, affecting many organs. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), people with typhoid fever carry the bacteria in their bloodstream and intestinal tract. Symptoms include prolonged high fever, fatigue, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and constipation or diarrhoea.

5. Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects your liver. It causes liver inflammation (hepatitis) and symptoms of mild-to-severe illness. This is an acute infection that lasts for up to two months, according to the CDC.

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)