Year-Round Stomach Infections: A New Concern
Stomach infections in India have traditionally peaked in summer, but recent trends show a concerning shift. Hospitals are now witnessing a rise in gastrointestinal infections throughout the year, leaving families startled and healthcare systems overwhelmed. This unexpected pattern has raised alarms among medical professionals, particularly as many individuals experience symptoms like nausea, bloating, vomiting, or diarrhea outside the typical seasonal peaks.
Dr. Anoop K R, a Consultant in Gastrointestinal Sciences at Manipal Hospital Whitefield, explains that this surge is attributed to a mix of factors. Changing weather patterns, compromised immunity, aging water systems, and lapses in lifestyle habits are all contributing to infections beyond the usual timeline. Unlike in the past, these gastrointestinal infections, which arise from viruses, bacteria, or parasites, are now occurring year-round due to a variety of environmental and societal issues.
In Bengaluru, there has been a notable increase in Hepatitis A cases, a clear signal of widespread water contamination. Hepatitis A is strictly a waterborne virus, and its sudden rise suggests that the city’s water supply is facing increasing ecological and infrastructural stress. Dr. Anoop emphasizes that all age groups are susceptible to these infections, but certain populations are at higher risk, including children with developing immune systems, individuals on chemotherapy, diabetics, and those with chronic conditions.
The fundamental triggers for these infections remain consistent: polluted water and unsafe food. Urbanization, construction dust, leaking pipelines, unregulated food outlets, and aging civic infrastructure have all contributed to this alarming trend. When water becomes unsafe, it affects everything reliant on it, from cooking and cleaning to washing vegetables and staying hydrated.
Dr. Anoop warns that these infections can escalate quickly, especially in vulnerable populations such as children and older adults. To mitigate these risks, he advises a few key practices. Home-cooked meals significantly lower the risk of exposure to harmful microbes. Maintaining proper hygiene, particularly handwashing before meals and after using the restroom, is crucial.
Furthermore, he stresses the importance of timely treatment. Delayed medical attention can worsen infections, particularly in cases like Hepatitis A or bacterial diarrhea. The rise in out-of-season stomach infections serves as a vital reminder that food safety, water hygiene, and personal preventive care should not be seasonal habits. By making cleaner choices and staying informed, many of these infections can be effectively prevented or controlled early.
This year, it is imperative to pay attention to your stomach's signals. Acting promptly can help avoid more severe health issues down the line.
