With temperatures rising constantly, incidences of waterborne diseases and heat-related illnesses are on the rise too. According to a health bulletin issued by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) in the first 13 days of the month, 434 people were hospitalized with complaints related to waterborne diseases. According to doctors, the waterborne cases are a result of water contamination. "Other than contaminated water, stale food also causes an infection that lead to diarrhea. We have reported more than 400 cases of waterborne diseases until 13th of the month. Fortunately, all reported cases are not concentrated in one pocket," said Dr Bhavin Solanki, in-charge medical officer of health, AMC. "We are regularly conducting awareness activities in slum pockets regarding summer illnesses. We are advising people to drink filtered and boiled water if they suspect the water is coloured or stinking. We are also providing free chlorine tablets," added the official. Of the 434 cases, 239 were of gastroenteritis, 84 of jaundice and 111 cases were of typhoid. Also, in just the last seven days, more than a thousand people with heat-related illnesses were treated by the 108 ambulance services. In most cases, patients were suffering from chest pain, abdominal pain, unconsciousness, vomiting, dehydration, ENT bleeding, fainting and blood pressure fluctuations; there were even some who had fallen as a result of their illness. "During summer, it is advisable to stay indoors and keep oneself hydrated. Eating habits and clothes also affect one's health. One must eat fresh food and increase liquid intake. Wearing light coloured clothes is also an effective way to avoid heat exertion," said Dr Solanki.

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