Excess rain in Kashmir raises threat of water borne diseases

SRINAGAR: An increased rainfall during the summer season has left the Kashmir valley prone to the looming threat of respiratory tract infections and water-borne diseases, according to the Directorate of Health Services.

The valley is experiencing an unusual weather pattern as the temperatures are dropping several degrees below the normal. The state has received ‘excess’ rain this month — 74 per cent more than the average — and more is expected in the next few days.

The agency has issued an advisory urging the valley residents to ensure proper precautionary methods while consuming water. “Due to incessant rain for the last few days, we anticipate an increase in the cases of respiratory tract infections and water-borne diseases,” reads the advisory issued by the Directorate’s Division of Epidemiology and Public Health.