Holi fun can turn risky with waterborne infections—stay informed and protected!

- Contaminated water during Holi can cause infections
- Common illnesses include diarrhea, hepatitis, and skin rashes
- Staying hydrated and using clean water helps prevent risks
Public health risks threatening health of people participating in mass gatherings: A qualitative study
Go to source).
Common Waterborne Infections During Holi
Gastroenteritis
One of the most frequent illnesses linked to contaminated water is gastroenteritis. It is caused by bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Shigella, as well as viruses like norovirus. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and dehydration. Drinking or accidentally ingesting tainted water while playing Holi can trigger this condition.
Contaminated water during Holi can expose you to infections like gastroenteritis, hepatitis, and skin diseases—simple precautions can help prevent them! #holisafety #waterbornediseases #medindia’





Typhoid Fever
Typhoid, caused by Salmonella typhi, spreads through contaminated food and water. The symptoms include prolonged fever, weakness, loss of appetite, and stomach discomfort. With increased water usage during Holi, accidental ingestion of contaminated water can raise the risk of infection.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that spreads through contaminated water and affects the liver. Symptoms include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain. Since Holi celebrations often involve shared drinks and food, the risk of transmission rises when hygiene practices are not followed.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that spreads through water contaminated with animal urine. If Holi colors or water are sourced from polluted areas, exposure to infected water can lead to flu-like symptoms, body aches, and in severe cases, kidney or liver damage.
Skin and Eye Infections
Dirty water mixed with artificial colors can lead to fungal and bacterial skin infections. Prolonged exposure may cause rashes, itching, or allergic reactions. Eye infections such as conjunctivitis can also occur due to water contamination, leading to redness, irritation, and discharge.
How to Protect Yourself This Holi
- Use Clean Water – Ensure that the water used during Holi celebrations comes from a clean and safe source. Avoid stagnant or unverified water supplies.
- Choose Herbal Colors – Many chemical-based colors contain harmful substances that can cause infections when mixed with contaminated water. Opt for organic or natural colors.
- Maintain Hygiene – Wash your hands and face frequently with clean water. Avoid touching your mouth or eyes with unclean hands.
- Stay Hydrated with Safe Water – Drink only purified or bottled water to prevent waterborne infections. Avoid consuming street food or drinks from unhygienic sources.
- Shower Immediately After Celebrations – Rinse off colors and any contaminated water from your body and hair to minimize the risk of infections.
Reference:
- Public health risks threatening health of people participating in mass gatherings: A qualitative study - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32985424/)
Source-Medindia