Health Experts Warn of Waterborne Disease Risk Amid Widespread Floods and Landslides

Continuous rainfall has triggered floods and landslides across the country, raising concerns over a surge in waterborne diseases. Health experts have urged the public to take precautionary measures as contamination of water sources poses a growing risk.

According to the Ministry of Health and Population, monsoon disasters often disrupt clean water systems, increasing the likelihood of diarrhea, cholera, dysentery, typhoid, pneumonia, and flu outbreaks. Dr. Bhakta Bahadur KC, the ministry’s information officer, warned that drinking water mixed with sewage during floods can rapidly spread infectious diseases.

“To stay safe, people should drink only boiled or chlorinated water and ensure food hygiene,” Dr. KC advised. “Proper sanitation, like handwashing with soap before meals and after using the toilet, is equally crucial, especially for children.”

Health authorities have begun distributing chlorine tablets and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) in affected areas. The government has also placed hospitals and health posts on high alert, with essential medicines and health workers mobilized to prevent disease outbreaks.