Guwahati Faces Health Crisis Amid Rising Dust Pollution

Health Concerns in Guwahati

GUWAHATI, March 2: A significant number of residents in Guwahati are currently experiencing cough and some are also suffering from fever. The rise in dust pollution, attributed to an extended dry spell, is being cited as a major factor behind this health issue.

Dr. MP Das, who leads the Medicine department at Gauhati Medical College & Hospital (GMCH), reported a notable increase in patients presenting with cough and cold symptoms at the facility.

She explained that while such ailments are typical for this time of year, the current situation has worsened due to insufficient rainfall. Rain would help settle the dust particles, thereby reducing the spread of illnesses, she noted.

Dr. Das highlighted that the severe dust pollution is leading to a rise in respiratory tract infections, with individuals in close proximity to infected persons also at risk of contracting these infections.

Many healthcare professionals at GMCH are also falling ill, either due to air pollution or through contact with infected patients.

Additionally, fever cases are being reported, stemming from either bacterial or viral infections. Dr. Das mentioned that while viral infections typically resolve on their own within a few days, bacterial infections may require a longer recovery period.

To manage cough, she recommended gargling with warm salt water or using anti-allergic medications. However, those experiencing fever should seek medical advice for appropriate treatment.

Dr. Das cautioned that children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or suffering from severe diabetes, are particularly vulnerable and should take extra precautions. Dust pollution poses significant risks for these groups.

“We must take necessary precautions and hope for rain, which will help bring down airborne particles and lessen the incidence of infections,” she concluded.