Cases of Hepatitis and Gastroenteritis in Temperatures: Precaution Tips

Cases of Hepatitis and Gastroenteritis in Temperatures: Precaution Tips

The cases of hepatitis and gastroenteritis are surging during the scorching heat this summer. Here's why and expert tips to practice precaution and stay safe.

The increasing heat and humidity during summer invite many health problems, including a rise in hepatitis and gastroenteritis cases. There is a significant spike in Hepatitis A and E cases in children aged 2–7 years due to food and water contamination during summer. The scorching heat outside sets the stage for bacteria and viruses to thrive in unhygienic conditions. Timely intervention is essential for hepatitis, as it can lead to liver failure.

Expert Advice on Hepatitis Prevention

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Seema Joshi, Senior Consultant Pediatrician and Adolescent Counselor at Ankura Hospitals in Pune, shared, “Children are complaining of various symptoms such as jaundice, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, and fever. They need timely medical attention to tackle this condition. To prevent hepatitis in children, parents should reduce the consumption of outside food and drinks. Ensure to give fresh and well-cooked food to your children. Encourage the habit of eating homemade food for overall well-being during summer.”

Understanding Gastroenteritis and How to Prevent It

Dr. Seema Joshi also highlighted another important condition to watch out for in children during summer: gastroenteritis or stomach flu. This is a painful stomach infection with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal distress, diarrhea, and dehydration. Spoiled food and contaminated roadside food and water cause gastroenteritis in kids. Pre-cut fruits and juices cause food poisoning, and the ice used for them is often contaminated. If a child consumes these juices or fruits, they will fall sick. Gastroenteritis occurs due to viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections. Parents should ensure their child eats fresh, homemade food, avoids roadside foods and beverages, wash hands before eating, and maintains good personal hygiene. Consult a doctor immediately if symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea are observed in children.

Additional Tips to Combat the Heat

Dr. Aklesh Tandekar, Head Consultant Critical Care at Wockhardt Hospitals on Mira Road, added, “To combat the heat, many people drink roadside juices like lemon, rose, mango, watermelon, pineapple, or orange that contain ice. However, if hygiene is not maintained, the ice can get contaminated with E. coli bacteria, leading to hepatitis with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, joint pain, jaundice, and fever. To prevent hepatitis, drink boiled water, eat well-cooked food, avoid roadside juices with ice, and get vaccinated as recommended by the doctor.”

He further explained that gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by bacterial or viral infections due to contaminated food and water. Rising temperatures during summer and poor eating habits can cause this unpleasant stomach infection. Dr. Aklesh Tandekar concluded, “Excessive heat can spoil food, and consuming stale food left uncovered can cause this condition. Poor hygiene while preparing food or not washing hands after using the washroom increases the risk of gastroenteritis. To prevent this condition, stay hydrated, drink rehydrating solutions, follow good personal hygiene, avoid contaminated roadside food, rest adequately, drink plenty of fluids, avoid stale or raw food, and cook food properly and store it well.”