Ukhrul, June 22 | EKHON: Health authorities in Ukhrul district have issued public health alerts warning residents of three infectious diseases, H. pylori infection, typhoid fever, and scrub typhus, and urged vigilance and early medical attention for symptoms.
The awareness campaign, released by the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) Unit, Ukhrul District, emphasizes that early detection, timely treatment, and proper hygiene practices are essential to preventing severe health complications.
Health officials highlighted growing concern over H. pylori, a common bacterium that infects the stomach lining. The infection can lead to stomach inflammation, ulcers, and in severe untreated cases, may increase the risk of stomach cancer.
Common symptoms include burning pain in the upper abdomen, bloating, nausea, frequent burping, reduced appetite, and a feeling of fullness after small meals. However, officials cautioned that many infected individuals may show no symptoms at all.
Residents experiencing persistent stomach-related discomfort are advised to undergo medical testing, including urea breath tests, stool antigen tests, blood tests, or endoscopy. Doctors warn against self-medication and emphasize that antibiotics should only be taken under professional supervision.
Authorities also raised awareness about Typhoid Fever, a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi, which spreads mainly through contaminated food and unsafe drinking water.
Symptoms include prolonged high fever, headache, weakness, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea. Health officials stressed the importance of immediate consultation with a doctor if fever persists for an extended period.
The advisory recommends early blood testing and completion of the full prescribed course of medication to prevent complications and reduce transmission.
Another major concern is Scrub Typhus, a bacterial disease transmitted through the bite of infected chigger mites, commonly found in grassy or bushy outdoor environments.
Symptoms include fever, headache, body pain, skin rash, and the appearance of an eschar — a distinctive black scab that may develop at the site of the mite bite.
Health officials advise residents to wear full-sleeved clothing, use insect repellents, avoid direct contact with grass or bushes, bathe after outdoor activities, and regularly check the body for insect bites or unusual rashes.
Across all three health advisories, authorities emphasized several common preventive measures:
- Drink only safe, clean, and boiled water
- Eat freshly cooked food and avoid stale or uncovered meals
- Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption
- Maintain clean sanitation facilities and proper hygiene practices
Officials have urged the public to seek early blood tests and immediate medical consultation if symptoms appear.
The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme Unit, Ukhrul District, stated that community awareness and preventive action remain the strongest defense against the spread of these infectious diseases.
“Stay aware, stay safe, report early, and prevent together,” the advisory concluded.
