Chennai warns of heat-related disease from roadside foods

Chennai health officials warn that summer heat increases the risk of food and water-borne diseases, including hepatitis A and E, typhoid, and gastroenteritis. Contaminated roadside food, especially cut fruits, poses a higher risk due to bacteria growth. Doctors advise the public to avoid unwashed and uncut fruits sold on the street. They recommend buying whole fruits and washing them at home to ensure hygiene. Increased insect activity and poor hygiene practices contribute to contamination. Food safety officials are working with vendors to improve hygiene standards. They are discouraging the use of chemicals for ripening fruits and urging vendors to source fresh ingredients and clean water.