Pani puri has been a staple on the streets of India for years. The comfort food is enjoyed in all parts of the country. However, recently it has been in the news for something extremely dangerous. It is suspected that Pani puri is responsible for the rise in typhoid cases in Telangana.
As many as 2700 typhoid cases were reported in May. The month of June experienced a splurge of 2752 cases. The monsoons seemed to have amplified the spread of the disease.
Dr. G. Srinivasa Rao, Director of Public Health, described Typhoid as the 'Pani puri' disease. The water used in Pani puri is blamed as the root cause of the disease.
"Do not eat pani puri in the rainy season. Pani puri bandis can become a source of typhoid fever since most vendors overlook basic hygiene and cleanliness. For the sake of Rs. 10 pani puri, don't ruin your health", Rao said.
"You may pani puri for 10-15 but tomorrow, you may end up spending Rs. 5000-10000", he added.
Dr. Rao advised people to consume fresh food and boil water before drinking. He also advised the street vendors to ensure safe drinking water and pay special attention to hygiene.
Dr. Rao pointed out that 1184 dengue cases were reported in the state since January. Out of which, 563 were registered in June itself. Contaminated water, food, and mosquitoes are the main causes of such seasonal diseases. Cases of Malaria have been reported as well.
He said the district medical officers and health workers have been directed to intensify anti-larval operations. He also urged people to observe every Friday as a dry day to reduce the number of mosquitos.
Typhoid is a water-borne disease. It is caused by the bacteria Salmonella Typhi. The symptoms include high-grade fever, abdominal pain, generalized weakness, abdominal pain, etc.
