As global temperatures soar, health experts are raising alarms about the heightened risk of infections. With the mercury frequently rising above 40°C in many regions, the combination of heat and increased humidity creates a perfect breeding ground for various pathogens. This surge in temperature is not just uncomfortable; it poses a significant health risk, particularly in terms of food and waterborne diseases.
Dr. Chand Wattal, Chairman of the Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, emphasized the gravity of the situation. “It is a common sense when temperature rises above expected room temperatures, infections are bound to happen. Because we are in the cesspool of organisms around us and the higher the temperature more are the chances of infection,” he said.
Dr. Wattal further explained that the quality of food items, including water, juices, and other drinks, deteriorates as the weather heats up. He noted that in many areas, temperatures have consistently been around 38°C to 40°C for the past month, occasionally spiking to 47°C. Such extreme conditions increase the prevalence of infections, particularly among individuals with comorbidities such as diabetes or immunological disorders, including cancer patients.
“People have to be mindful of what they are doing and what they are eating,” Dr. Wattal advised. “Once you are sure that your keeping quality of food is ensured, the chances of infections are less.” He highlighted that water is a primary vehicle for disease spread and that the quantity of contaminated food consumed directly impacts the severity of illness.
The list of notorious infections prevalent in such weather includes typhoid, malaria, cholera, dysentery, and non-typhoidal salmonella, which can cause severe diarrhea and spread within households. Dr. Wattal pointed out that summer illnesses are primarily waterborne or associated with dairy products, leading to prolonged illness if not promptly treated and diagnosed.
In addition to bacterial infections, viral infections are also on the rise, affecting both children and adults with equal intensity. The elderly, especially COVID-19 survivors with compromised immunity, are particularly vulnerable. Dining out becomes challenging during scorching summers as maintaining food quality in restaurants and food plazas becomes difficult, increasing the risk of food poisoning from improperly stored or cooked food.
“A variety of organisms grow profusely in incompletely cooked food or inadequately stored food,” Dr. Wattal cautioned. He provided examples of common culprits like Chinese chicken fried rice and certain sweets like rasgullas, which can easily become contaminated and cause food poisoning. He also warned about the risks associated with consuming ice creams and milkshakes during hot weather.
Dr. Wattal emphasized the importance of proper hygiene, particularly hand hygiene, to prevent infections. He also advised against consuming poorly stored canned or non-vegetarian food items and stressed the significance of maintaining appropriate refrigerator temperatures. During extreme heat, even the effectiveness of refrigerators can be compromised, which might not keep food as cold as needed.
“Now the question arises as to how can we prevent infections during this weather,” Dr. Wattal said. “Hand hygiene is one of the practices that needs to be followed more vigorously and frequently. This can save you from infections during this weather.” He also recommended being cautious about what you eat and drink outside the home and ensuring that food is freshly prepared.
For those who do contract infections, most cases of diarrhea are self-limiting and can be managed with oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to replenish fluids and electrolytes. However, severe cases, such as typhoid fever, may require medical intervention and intravenous antibiotics.
As temperatures continue to rise, it is crucial to be vigilant about food and water safety to prevent infections. By following simple preventive measures, the public can protect themselves from the adverse effects of extreme heat on health.
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