In this special report, a medical expert from Sir Ganga Ram Hospital discusses the alarming rise in typhoid cases in urban centres, refuting the notion that it is entirely a rural issue. Doctors highlight that even affluent families using RO purification are at risk due to the ‘fecal-oral route’ of transmission through contaminated raw food and salads. Experts advise that ‘boiling water is a must’ to ensure safety when the effectiveness of RO is uncertain. The discussion also addresses the challenge of antibiotic resistance, stating that patients now require stronger, intravenous antibiotics for longer periods due to things being ‘partially treated’. Key symptoms to look out for include high-grade fever, headache and ‘bad taste’ in the mouth. Experts emphasize that ‘blood culture is the only standard target test’ for accurate diagnosis.

The report focuses on the worrying rise in typhoid cases in urban India, including the National Capital Region (NCR). Despite the widespread use of RO filtration systems, many people are still falling prey to infections. The speaker explains that the danger often lies not in the glass, but in the plate. Sources such as raw food, raw salads and commercial ice in cocktails are identified as major carriers of the virus. The discussion highlights the recent tragedy involving contaminated water in Indore as a sobering reminder of civic apathy. The report also details symptoms such as persistent fever and fatigue, urging viewers to avoid self-medication. While a vaccine exists, speakers emphasize that caution regarding consumption sources is the best defense.

A meeting with a Mumbai fan, a homemade puran poli, and a heartfelt “Om Shanti Om” moment.

In this special report from India Today, Shreya Dhoundiyal investigates the serious water pollution crisis in west Delhi’s Kumar Singh Colony. Following a revelation on the ‘Delhi water crisis’, the Delhi government has swung into action, with BJP leader Harish Khurana saying ‘pipelines in the area will be replaced soon’ to address the infrastructure failure. However, Shreya Dhoundiyal highlights a significant gap between official claims and the reality on the ground. She says urban planning failures, especially lack of coordination between the Delhi Jal Board and gas pipeline departments, lead to frequent breakages, in which sewage water gets mixed. Dhoundiyal emphasizes that ‘this is not an old story’ but an ‘everyday issue’ in the national capital, where residents have been forced to drink contaminated water for months. The program describes the situation in India as a fundamental ‘fight for the basics’. India Today continues its Reality Check to hold local representatives accountable for the quality of essential services in Delhi.