After heavy floods in Punjab, the biggest worry now is not the water itself but the diseases that may follow. As the water slowly recedes, officials are warning that dirty water and poor sanitation have created dangerous conditions for the spread of illness.

The state health department has already issued an alert, warning people to stay cautious. Authorities said that stagnant floodwater, spoiled food, and damaged hygiene facilities have created perfect conditions for waterborne and foodborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, diarrhoea, and hepatitis A and E. Skin infections are also being reported from some areas.

According to the health advisory, many traditional water sources like wells, handpumps, and pipelines have been polluted. This happened because sewage overflow, decayed animal carcasses, and even industrial waste from upstream areas have mixed with the water. Doctors have strongly advised people not to drink water directly from these sources.

Instead, residents should drink only boiled water. The advisory says that water should be boiled until it reaches a rolling boil, and then allowed to cool naturally. People have also been asked not to add ice to the water. If it is not possible to boil enough water for everyone, priority should be given to infants, elderly people, and those with weak immune systems, as they are the most vulnerable.

Health experts are also raising concerns about vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria. This is because stagnant water left behind by the floods provides the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. To prevent this, the government has instructed local officials, including panchayat leaders and village heads, to make sure proper drainage is carried out. 

They have also been told to spray chemicals in affected areas to kill mosquito larvae. The authorities are urging people to remain alert, follow hygiene precautions, and cooperate with local health workers. While the floodwaters may be going down, the fight against disease is only beginning.