Pune: Doctors have sounded the alarm as the city records a sharp rise in gastroenteritis and typhoid cases, citing sewage-contaminated drinking water and unhygienic food as the primary culprits. Clinicians reported a drastic surge in outpatient department (OPD) visits for symptoms related to waterborne infections.Dr Mahendra Dadke, head of internal medicine at Jupiter Hospital, noted that the rush of patients suffering from gastrointestinal complications has increased by more than 50% in the past week. “We are seeing patients with loose motions, vomiting, abdominal pain, and nausea following consumption of contaminated tanker water or outside food,” he said.Dr Dadke highlighted that the most affected individuals are adults from rapidly growing areas such as Balewadi, Baner, Pimple Nilakh, Pimple Gurav, and Hinjewadi. “Many societies in these areas lack direct municipal water supply and are heavily dependent on water tankers,” he added.Tests have revealed a mix of pathogens, including salmonella, vibrio, rotavirus, norovirus, and protozoa such as cyclospora. Dr Dadke said symptoms typically appear within 48 to 72 hours of exposure. “While heavy rains contribute to the spread, unsafe food practices and unhygienic eateries appear to be major drivers. Vulnerable groups, especially children and the elderly, are particularly at risk, with some households reporting multiple members affected,” he said, warning that those with persistent vomiting, high fever, or blood in their stool should seek immediate care.The surge is equally evident among children. Dr Nakul Pathak, consultant in paediatric intensive care at Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital, reported a significant rise in waterborne infections compared to the same period last year. “In children, we are most often seeing acute gastroenteritis, typhoid, and even hepatitis A or E in those presenting with jaundice,” Dr Pathak said. Laboratory cultures have identified salmonella typhi in blood samples, while stool samples are showing E. coli, shigella, and various viral pathogens.Dr Pathak warned parents that fluid loss in younger children can become critical very quickly. Warning signs such as reduced urination, dry mouth, unusual drowsiness, or an inability to retain fluids should never be ignored.Adding to the monsoon context, Dr. Rizwan Malik, consultant physician at Medicover Hospitals, Bhosari, linked the spike to flooding and sewage overflow. “The surge is largely attributable to the contamination of drinking water sources and the use of poorly maintained household water filters, which can become ineffective if not serviced regularly,” Dr. Malik said.While most patients can be treated through rehydration and targeted medication, some require hospitalisation for severe dehydration or complications. Dr Ameet Dravid, infectious diseases consultant at Noble Hospitals, emphasised the importance of early intervention. “In cases of vomiting and diarrhea, one must begin with correctly prepared oral rehydration salts (ORS) early and use only boiled or safely filtered water. Antibiotics should only be administered after a medical evaluation, as treatment must be guided by specific symptoms and confirmed test findings. Delaying the right treatment can lead to severe complications,” Dr Dravid cautioned.
