Following the rains and the COVID surge in Singapore, the state Directorate of Public Health and and Preventive Medicine (TN DPHPM), has issued multiple advisories to the public. Here is a glimpse:
Surge in COVID cases in Singapore
DPHPM has advised the public not to panic hearing about news of the sudden surge in the new variant of COVID-19 in Singapore and other South Asian countries. Identified as KP.2 (sub-variant of Omicron), it has also been reported in some parts of India. About 98-99% of these cases are self-limiting. Even in Singapore, the cases have not been critical. The variant presents only mild respiratory infections. Thus COVID itself has now been categorised as a variant of the common flu, of which multiple waves can be expected every year. Additionally, since everyone above 18 years has been vaccinated for COVID, the symptoms would be very mild, and not require any hospitalisation.
DPHPM also advised people to be cautious by wearing a mask in public and being careful around vulnerable people like senior citizens, pregnant women etc.
Menstrual Hygiene Day
May 28 is celebrated as World Menstrual Day. The date is significant as it resonates with the 28-day cycle of the periods. The theme this year is ‘Together for a Period-Friendly World’. DPHPM encouraged family members to understand the issues faced by the women in their family during this time, eg, cramps, mood swings etc., and figure out how to comfort them. Fathers also need to talk freely with their daughters without inhibitions.
Nowadays, it is imperative that men also start talking about it, as issues with menstruation / infections can cause infertility. The state is spending nearly 130 crores to provide hygienic napkins for adolescent girls. Nearly 15 packs are provided to a girl child each year from age 10 to 19. Apart from that help is also provided to mothers as part of post-natal care, prisoners, and women with mental issues.
DPHPM also encouraged women to use menstrual cups and reusable pads, which are economically and environmentally sustainable. Every girl must be able to handle periods confidently and in a dignified manner, the advisory stated.
National Dengue Day
National Dengue Day is observed on May 16 to raise awareness of the disease. Till about 20 years ago, Dengue was a seasonal phenomenon (monsoon) that was limited to one or two smaller areas in Tamilnadu. Also, it mainly impacted the children. However, currently, given the potential of the virus to adapt to the urban environment, it has become a state-wide disease, affecting all irrespective of age, throughout the year. Though viral, Dengue spreads only through the bite of an infected Aedes species of mosquitoes. One of the earliest symptoms of Dengue is fever. Thus one must consult a physician immediately and not dismiss it as a regular fever. The public is requested to ensure that stagnant water is not there in the open areas, to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes.
World Hypertension Day
On May 17, World Hypertension Day is observed to emphasise the dangers of hypertension, also known as the silent killer. Hypertension is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high, which may damage not only the blood vessels but also other vital organs like the heart, kidneys etc.
Early identification and intervention can prevent these outcomes. It can be managed through lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet rich in fibre, fruits, and vegetables, reducing salt intake, avoiding trans fats, and engaging in regular physical exercise.
Hypertension treatment is free in Tamil Nadu’s government hospitals and can also be availed at home through the ‘Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam’ project. Despite the absence of evident symptoms, it’s crucial to test for hypertension bi-annually. This year’s theme ‘Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer’ asserts that regular checkups and proper medication can prevent severe complications.
