Monsoon Diseases: Stay Safe this Rainy Season

Dr. Hemalatha P, Consultant General Medicine, SUT Hospital, Pattom

With the arrival of the monsoon season comes a rise in infectious diseases mostly due to stagnant water, unhygienic conditions and fluctuating weather. Here is a quick guide to the most common monsoon diseases and how to prevent them.

1. Common Cold
   Influenza or the common cold, spreads rapidly during the rainy season. It is an airborne virus that infects the nose and throat, causing sneezing, runny nose and cough. Although it resolves on its own in 4–5 days, it is important to maintain personal hygiene and cover your mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing to prevent spreading it to others.
2. Waterborne Diseases
   Cholera, typhoid, hepatitis A and other diarrheal illnesses are widespread during monsoon due to contaminated water. Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration are common. If it is associated with jaundice may indicate typhoid or hepatitis A. These conditions need medical attention and in some cases, antibiotics. Preventive steps include drinking boiled water, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly and ensuring safe food practices. Vaccines are available for typhoid and hepatitis A.
3. Mosquito-Borne Diseases:
   Diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and malaria are spread by mosquitoes that breed in stagnant water. These illnesses may cause fever, joint pain, headaches and dangerously low platelet counts. To prevent mosquito bites, avoid water accumulation around your home, use nets, repellents and wear protective clothing.
4. COVID-19:COVID-19 cases have risen during monsoon season in recent years. Symptoms include cough, sore throat and shortness of breath. Vulnerable groups like the elderly or with low immunity should take extra care. Testing and isolation are key if symptoms develop.

Prevention Tips

• Drink only clean, boiled water.
• Avoid street food and eat well-cooked meals.
• Wear dry clothes to prevent fungal infections.
• Reduce mosquito breeding by cleaning drains and emptying stagnant water.
• Maintain distance from infected individuals and practice good hygiene.
• Staying alert and following these simple practices can go a long way in keeping monsoon diseases at bay.