Hospitals across various cities in India are witnessing a notable surge in patients requiring urgent treatment for stomach infections, commonly known as summer diarrhoea. This increase is attributed to the adverse weather conditions that prevail in many parts of the country, with temperatures frequently reaching between 40 and 46 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heatwave alerts for northern and central states due to persistent high temperatures.

States such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Maharashtra, and the National Capital Region are experiencing temperatures exceeding usual norms. The nights are also reportedly uncomfortably warm, further exacerbating the situation. These climatic conditions create an environment conducive to the survival of various viruses, leading to an increase in stomach flu cases.

According to Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, an internal medicine specialist at Apollo Hospitals, the extreme heat accelerates food spoilage, thus heightening the risk of food-borne illnesses. He emphasised that dehydration, combined with consuming water from questionable sources, significantly contributes to the prevalence of stomach infections among the population.

Common Causes And Symptoms Of Infection

The primary agents responsible for stomach infections in India include norovirus, rotavirus, and various types of bacteria that lead to gastroenteritis and fever. These infections are generally transmitted through contaminated food and water, contact with infected individuals or surfaces, and even person-to-person interactions. Dr Manik Sharma, Senior Director of Gastroenterology at Max Super Speciality in Noida, noted that the symptoms typically manifest as inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in discomfort including diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal cramping, and pain.

Dr Sharma further explained that environmental factors such as inadequate sanitation and overflowing drains complicate the situation, making water sources vulnerable to contamination. Annually, gastroenteritis is responsible for millions of cases in India, highlighting the serious public health implications associated with seasonal climate changes.

Individuals should remain vigilant regarding certain severe symptoms of diarrhoea and gastroenteritis. Immediate medical attention is required if vomiting persists beyond two days in adults, one day in children, or 12 hours in infants. Other concerning signs include an inability to retain fluids, signs of severe dehydration, and the presence of blood in vomit or stool.

Prevention Measures To Take

Preventive measures are essential to curtail the spread of infections during these warmer months. Dr Sharma recommends frequent handwashing over the use of hand sanitiser, as effective sanitation is critical in avoiding norovirus-related illnesses. It is suggested that individuals wash their hands for at least 20 seconds, as hand sanitizers may not be effective against all pathogens.

Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining health during this period. It is advisable to replace lost fluids with oral rehydration solutions and to avoid consumption of sugary drinks, fruit juices, and caffeine. Additionally, caution should be exercised when consuming raw fruits and vegetables, particularly those left out in warm conditions.

Dr Sharma stressed the importance of proper food handling to prevent summer food poisoning. It is recommended to clean surfaces thoroughly, separate raw meat from other food items, ensure food is cooked adequately, and refrigerate perishable items promptly. Adhering to these guidelines can significantly mitigate the risk of falling ill during the hot season.

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