Even though hospitals haven’t yet seen a sharp rise in illnesses tied to the recent torrential rains and urban flooding in Bengaluru, medical experts warn that the aftermath may reveal itself in the days ahead.

Dr Carolin Elizabeth George, Head of Community Medicine at a private hospital in Hebbal, said a delay of up to a week is typical before a spike in waterborne diseases appears. “The risk of dengue is high, along with infections like Hepatitis A and typhoid, especially where water contamination is likely,” she cautioned. She also pointed out that submerged, pothole-ridden roads increase the chances of physical injuries, particularly with construction zones left exposed.

Backing this, Dr Ajith Benedict Rayan, medical director at a central Bengaluru hospital, confirmed that at least 15 individuals have sought treatment for rain-related injuries since last weekend. “One of the worst was a fractured ankle caused by slipping on a flooded stretch of road,” he shared.

Beyond the physical fallout, mental health concerns loom large. Dr Arvind Kasthuri, a professor of community health in south Bengaluru, highlighted the often-ignored psychological toll of losing shelter to floods. “The emotional burden is heavy, especially for the poor. But water damage affects everyone to some degree. When homes are damaged, it deeply disrupts a person’s mental well-being, often with lasting consequences,” he explained.

As Bengaluru wades through the aftermath, doctors urge caution, cleanliness, and care.