Sat May 24 15:25:28 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Kerala is preparing for its annual monsoon-related health challenges, with the Health Department issuing warnings about potential outbreaks of dengue fever and leptospirosis. These diseases have been a recurring problem in the state for decades, especially during the monsoon season. Health officials are urging the public to take preventative measures, including using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing and footwear, boiling drinking water, and practicing good hygiene. Hospitals are also preparing for a possible surge in admissions, ensuring adequate medical supplies and making contingency plans for potential waterlogging.

**News Article:**

**Kerala Braces for Monsoon Epidemics: Dengue and Leptospirosis Threat Looms**

**Thiruvananthapuram, May 24, 2025** – As the Southwest monsoon arrives early in Kerala, the state’s Health Department has issued a high alert, warning residents to prepare for a potential spike in dengue fever and leptospirosis cases. These seasonal outbreaks have become a persistent public health challenge in Kerala, particularly during the monsoon months.

Health officials report that all four serotypes of the dengue virus are endemic in the state, with cyclical outbreaks occurring since 2013. Leptospirosis and other waterborne diseases like hepatitis A are also major concerns, with changing weather conditions potentially exacerbating transmission.

The Health Department is urging the public to take preventative measures, including:

* Using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing to avoid mosquito bites.
* Individuals engaged in farming, dairy farming or outdoor cleaning activities should use gumboots and gloves, and consider doxycycline prophylaxis to prevent leptospirosis.
* Washing hands and feet with soap after exposure to rainwater, and preventing children from playing in stagnant water.
* Boiling drinking water to prevent hepatitis A and other waterborne diseases.

“Contamination of water sources is a real possibility during rains,” said a Health Department spokesperson. “Using only boiled water for drinking is a crucial public health measure to prevent diseases like typhoid, cholera, and diarrheal illnesses.”

Hospitals across the state have been instructed to prepare for increased admissions, ensure sufficient medicine stocks, and develop contingency plans for potential waterlogging due to heavy rains. Special guidelines have also been issued for rain relief camps to prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases.

The Health Department emphasizes the importance of sustained source reduction activities to control mosquito breeding, while urging citizens to prioritize self-care and hygiene during the monsoon season.

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