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In order to stay healthy, one must be aware of the common diseases that arise during the monsoon and how to deal with or avoid them.
Parents should focus on hygiene, clean water, and preventing mosquito bites.
The monsoon rains are a welcome respite from the heat of summer, but with them come conditions that lead to an upsurge in seasonal diseases. Increased humidity, water logging, and low personal hygiene during this time promote the breeding of viruses, bacteria, and mosquitoes, hence increasing the risk of infections. In order to stay healthy, one must be aware of the common diseases that arise during the monsoon and how to deal with or avoid them.
Dr Anirudh Anumula, General Physician & Infectious Disease Specialist, Apollo Clinic, Kondapur and Dr Priyanka Bote, Consultant Pediatrician, K J Somaiya Hospital and Research Centre shares all you need to know:
The most common complaints during this time are mosquito-borne illnesses. Rainwater, if left stagnant, becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes, leading to a spike in illnesses such as dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. These are usually preceded by symptoms of high fever, severe body ache, headache, joint pain, and weakness. If not treated in the early stages, they can lead to hospitalization. Early detection and treatment are necessary to avoid major complications.
Another major concern is water-borne disease transmission. Bacterial contamination of water results in infections such as gastroenteritis, hepatitis A, typhoid, and cholera. These are commonly accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and general weakness. Proper hygiene practices and the use of clean, boiled, or bottled water are essential for prevention.
Common viral illnesses like the cold, flu, and viral fevers are also prevalent during the monsoon. Though usually self-limiting, they can be troublesome, especially in children and older adults. Typical symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, and loss of appetite.
General signs to watch for in all monsoon illnesses include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. If symptoms persist, a physician should be consulted, as neglecting them can lead to dehydration and worsening health.
Preventive actions include regular hand washing, avoiding street food, eating home-cooked meals, drinking purified water, and using mosquito repellent. Wearing full-sleeved clothing while outdoors can also help prevent mosquito bites.
For mild symptoms, oral rehydration solutions, warm soups, and foods rich in vitamin C can be beneficial. Over-the-counter medications like paracetamol and antihistamines may offer some relief but should only be taken under medical guidance.
During the monsoon, children commonly suffer from viral fevers, the common cold, influenza, gastroenteritis, skin infections (bacterial and fungal), and respiratory issues such as bronchitis or asthma flare-ups. Children are more vulnerable during this season due to their developing immune systems and increased exposure to moisture, contaminated water, and damp environments that promote the spread of infections.
Warning signs in children include prolonged high fever, vomiting or diarrhoea, rashes, persistent coughing or wheezing, and lethargy. Danger signs that warrant immediate medical attention include fever lasting more than two days, signs of dehydration (dry mouth, reduced urination), difficulty breathing, or drowsiness. Any abnormal behaviour or refusal to feed in infants should prompt an urgent hospital visit.
Good hand hygiene, consumption of clean boiled water, and avoiding street food are crucial during the monsoon. Dress children in lightweight, loose-fitting clothes that dry quickly. Keep surroundings dry and clean, and eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. Encourage the consumption of fresh, home-cooked meals rich in seasonal fruits and vegetables to boost immunity.
Mild illnesses like coughs and colds can often be managed with warm fluids, saline nasal drops, and steam inhalation. Avoid self-medication, especially with antibiotics. To build immunity, ensure a balanced diet, adequate hydration, sufficient sleep, and take vitamin C or zinc supplements if prescribed by your pediatrician.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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