IMD rain warning triggers statewide health advisory in Telangana

Hyderabad: The Government of Telangana, through the Office of the Director of Public Health and Family Welfare, has issued a general health advisory on May 29, 2025, for citizens in view of the Indian Meteorological Department’s warning of heavy rains across the state over the next two days. The weather conditions are expected to bring lower temperatures and higher humidity, which may lead to an increase in seasonal illnesses, particularly vector- and water-borne diseases.

The advisory urges residents to take necessary precautions to protect against mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and chikungunya. Citizens are advised to secure doors and windows with mosquito screens and use mosquito nets while sleeping. The use of mosquito repellents is also recommended.

Households are encouraged to maintain domestic drains to avoid water stagnation and to ensure septic tanks are covered with mesh to prevent mosquito breeding. The public is also reminded to observe “Friday-Dry Day” every week to eliminate stagnant water around homes.

To prevent the spread of water-borne illnesses like acute gastroenteritis, jaundice, and typhoid, residents are advised to drink only filtered or boiled water and to wash hands regularly, particularly before and after meals. The advisory also cautions against consuming stale or street food during the rainy season.

With the risk of airborne infections such as viral fevers and influenza, the public is advised to avoid close contact, especially shaking hands, with individuals showing signs of illness. The use of hand sanitizers is recommended, and people are urged to use a handkerchief when sneezing or coughing. Those experiencing flu-like symptoms, including cough, fever, headache, sore throat, and body aches, are encouraged to visit the nearest government health facility.

In the event of a medical emergency, citizens can call the 108 Ambulance Services for immediate assistance. To prepare for any health-related exigencies, the government has arranged for special beds, intravenous fluids, and essential medicines at all public health facilities. Additionally, medicines and ORS sachets are available through ANMs, ASHAs, and Anganwadi workers. The advisory was issued by Dr. B. Ravinder Nayak, Director of Public Health and Family Welfare, Telangana.