Summary He stressed that maintaining proper hydration and balanced nutrition is essential to preventing complications during the hot summer months.
ISLAMABAD (APP) - As cases of stomach diseases continue to increase during the summer, gastroenterologist cautioned the public against consuming unhygienic and improperly preserved food, warning that contaminated food and water remain major sources of Hepatitis A and E infections, particularly threatening the health of children and pregnant women.
While speaking to a local media channel on Sunday, gastroenterologist Dr. Abdullah Bin Khalid shed light on the growing concerns of unhygienic food practices during the summer season, particularly the consumption of frozen food stored for prolonged periods.
Specialist warned that such improper food handling significantly increases the risk of food borne infections and stomach-related illnesses among the public.
He further cautioned that contaminated food and unsafe water are major contributors to the spread of Hepatitis A and E during summer, emphasizing that pregnant women are especially at higher risk of severe complications.
Dr urged people to avoid stale, improperly stored and unhygienic food items, particularly those sold in unsafe or poorly maintained environments.
The doctor also recommended the use of ORS and zinc supplements in cases of dehydration and diarrhea illness, along with ensuring the intake of clean drinking water and freshly cooked meals.
He stressed that maintaining proper hydration and balanced nutrition is essential to preventing complications during the hot summer months.
He further advised the public to seek timely medical consultation rather than self-medication, highlighting that early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing Hepatitis A and E infections and other food-borne diseases prevalent during the summer season.
He further advised the public to adopt strict hygiene measures during the summer season, including regular hand washing, proper storage of food at safe temperatures, and avoiding street food prepared in unhygienic conditions. He stressed that simple preventive practices at the household level can significantly reduce the risk of Hepatitis A and E as well as other food borne illnesses spreading through contaminated food and water.
The doctor also called on parents and school administrations to ensure that canteens maintain proper cleanliness standards and serve freshly prepared meals to children.
He warned that negligence in food safety can have serious health consequences, particularly for children and pregnant women, and urged collective responsibility to curb the rising burden of summer-related stomach and liver diseases.
