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.
