Cyclone Dana is anticipated to land in Odisha and West Bengal on October 24, prompting residents to take necessary precautions to ensure their protection. Alongside implementing safety measures, it is also important to be aware of the various health hazards from huge storms like cyclones. The wind formation is accompanied by heavy rains, floods, landslides, rough seas and even various pathogens that can unleash a barrage of health concerns on citizens. Here are a few of the diseases you should take precautions against if you live in a cyclone-prone area:
1) Respiratory infections
The dust and debris, mould growth, contaminated air and lack of timely access to healthcare can contribute to various respiratory illnesses while your area is facing a storm. In the cyclone season, the common respiratory issues in the Odisha-West Bengal region are asthma exacerbations, bronchitis, pneumonia, allergic rhinitis, respiratory infections and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, aka COPD. To stay safe from them, you should stay indoors to avoid exposure to dust and debris. Also, use air purifiers, seal your home and monitor air quality as much as possible. Staying hydrated and promptly cleaning cyclone-affected areas in your living space to prevent mould growth is also important.
2) Skin infections
Due to flooding, poor hygiene conditions and vector bites, the immune system can weaken, leading to skin infections during the cyclone season. The bacterial skin infections named cellulitis, fungal infections like athlete's foot or ringworm, dermatitis due to exposure to contaminated water, scabies spread by mites, impetigo and leptospirosis are a few of the skin issues commonly faced by people in Odisha and West Bengal after cyclones. To stay safe from these diseases, wounds should be given immediate care. As much as possible, stay away from stagnant water and maintain hygiene. Also, wear protective clothing with long sleeves and pants to keep your skin as dry as possible.
3) Vector-borne diseases
The massive overcrowding of people, displacement, contaminated environment and stagnant water encourage breeding grounds for vectors like mosquitoes after a cyclone. Dengue fever, Chikungunya, malaria, filariasis, Japanese Encephalitis and West Nile Virus are commonly reported in the Odisha - West Bengal region in the cyclone seasons. These diseases can be controlled to some extent by ensuring the use of mosquito nets, applying insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and eliminating standing water.