IMA Kerala urges vigilance amid rise in Monsoon-Borne Diseases
Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala chapter of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has issued a strong advisory highlighting the urgent
need for heightened vigilance against epidemics triggered by monsoon conditions
and the effects of climate change.
The association expressed serious concern over the surge in infectious fevers, waterborne diseases, and the
alarming return of cholera, once thought to be eradicated. Additionally, the
emergence of new and rare infectious diseases is placing increasing strain on
the country’s healthcare infrastructure, IMA warned.
In light of these
concerns, the IMA called upon the government to address staff shortages across
the health sector. It emphasised the importance of ensuring a steady supply of
preventive tools, financial assistance, and essential medicines to manage potential
outbreaks effectively. While commending Kerala for its achievements in disease
diagnosis and treatment, the association noted that the state’s inadequate
preventive mechanisms are enabling the continued spread of infections, reports the Times of India.
The IMA stressed the
importance of widespread public education regarding personal hygiene,
environmental cleanliness, and structured healthcare practices. It urged
authorities to intensify efforts aimed at ensuring access to safe food and
clean drinking water. The elimination of disease at its source, it added,
should be a top priority to break the chain of transmission.
Pledging its complete
support for a coordinated and holistic response, the IMA instructed its members
to actively participate in both preventive and treatment efforts. It assured the readiness of volunteer groups and support networks in emergency scenarios, noting
that disaster management teams, epidemic control units, and medical response
groups are already operational at the state and district levels, reports the Daily. Finally, the association
appealed to the government to establish a state-level coordination committee to
enhance the effectiveness of response activities and ensure better preparedness
in the face of evolving public health threats.
Medical Dialogues
previously reported that facing a severe shortage of doctors affecting services
at Peravoor Taluk Hospital, the Kerala Government Medical Officers’
Association (KGMOA) announced a protest, urging the Health Department to
take immediate corrective action.