The monsoons in India provide a welcome relief from the dry, hot period that characterizes summers. Incessant rains bring waves of life to arid landscapes, but the cool showers also bring many diseases. While some of those diseases are minor and can be treated without much difficulty, others require immediate medical attention as they can quickly become life-threatening. Water- and vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue represent a major health challenge for the general population.
Why is there a greater tendency to get sick during the monsoon season?
During the monsoon, there is a change in temperature and humidity that causes viruses and bacteria to flare up in the environment as the temperature and humidity are favorable for cell growth. “During monsoons, stagnation of water becomes a real challenge in India and this promotes bacterial growth resulting in many vector-borne diseases such as Dengue, Malaria and Chikungunya,” said Dr. Amitava Ray, Physician General, Apollo 24 |7.
Another class of diseases that are more common in the monsoon season are waterborne diseases. Sewage seeping and mixing with drinking water is a major factor in the prevalence of waterborne diseases in India. We must be careful about the quality of the water we drink to avoid waterborne diseases.
Watch out for these symptoms
Since the most common monsoon-related diseases are classified into vectors and waterborne diseases, their symptoms may differ. “Malaria is a vector-borne disease caused by one of 4 parasites of the Plasmodium family. While the most common symptoms of malaria are a high fever and chills, other symptoms can include fatigue and weakness,” adds Dr. Ray for it.
On the other hand, the telltale sign of dengue infection is severe body aches and a declining platelet count. Likewise, chikungunya results in severe joint pain that can last for weeks or months.
Waterborne illnesses often show symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and abdominal pain. They usually occur as a result of the consumption of street food prepared with contaminated and unsanitary sources of water, along with accelerated insect growth such as flies and mosquitoes.
Ways to stay safe during monsoon season
We have to follow basic hygiene rules to stay safe during monsoon season. Here are the other ways you can stay safe during monsoon season
- If the water has not been purified with water filters or is not mineralized, boil it before consumption.
- Disinfect your hands beforehand with soap or hand sanitizer to prevent infections.
- “Since mosquitoes are responsible for three of the most serious monsoon diseases, eradicating brood mosquitoes from your area is a progressive step towards preventing monsoon diseases. This can be done by clearing standing water in which the mosquitoes breed,” says Dr Ray.
- Using mosquito nets and wearing long-sleeved clothing can also help prevent such diseases
Apart from these measures, one should undergo clinical tests if they observe any symptoms or have a chance of contracting these diseases.
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