Ganeshotsav 2012: Bid a ‘healthy’ adieu to Bappa

As thousands of people take to the streets on Saturday to be part of the processions carrying Ganesh idols for immersion, doctors suggest precautionary measures to avoid health related problems.

Dr Prakash Marathe, in-charge of Indian Medical Association’s disaster management unit, said that a common mistake people make is going empty stomach or without adequate supply of water to see the procession.

“Once you’re a part of the procession, you lose sense of time. People who are diabetic and hypertensive should be careful as the crowd and loud music is a stress factor. Besides, fatigue due to standing for long hours and continuous strain without food or adequate water leads to severe weakness,” said Marathe.

He added that since viral infections were rapidly spreading in the city, people should be wary of it as well. “These days, conjunctivitis or eye infections is increasing and amidst such huge crowd, it is expected to spread even faster. It is better that people keep rinsing their eyes with cool water and keep hands clean by regular hand wash,” he said.

Family physician Dr Avinash Bhondwe advised to watch out for signs such as cough, cold, fever, sore throat and said that people with any such symptoms should stay indoors.

“Preferably, people should cover their mouth and nose when they visit crowded places. The risk of swine flu reappearing still remains and hence it is safe to take preventive measures. Avoid sneezing and coughing in public,” he said. ENT surgeon Dr Gauri Belsare said that cases of noise induced deafness especially in younger population is high after Ganesh immersion.

“Keep safe distance from loudspeakers and cover your ears with a plug to avoid damage,” she said.

One of the most important precaution one should take is avoid inhaling gulal, which is a major irritant and causes many health problems.

“Inhaling gulal can be harmful for those suffering from respiratory problems like bronchitis, asthma or breathing problems. It also leads to irritation in the eye and skin problems too,” she said.