Rainy season brings lot of fun, greenery and cool climate with it. However, it also invites lot of health disorders as well. Dealing with such illnesses associated with rainy season is not very difficult. You should be aware of certain quick remedies if you cope with such illnesses due to rainy season. Parents of small children need to be extra-careful during rainy season to prevent such disorder.
Rainy season comes with lot of fun, excitement and along with it there are host of infections that are prevalent during this season. People should be aware of these problems so that they can take necessary precautions during this season. The most common illness is related to respiratory system and water and food borne diseases cannot be overlooked. Cold and flu are common illness that is found in rainy season and this is usually due to fluctuation in the temperature. If you are a student, a working citizen or a mom, you need to protect yourself from these illnesses and prevent from getting sick. When rain starts pouring in, you first look for a shelter and try to save yourself from getting drenched. However, a shelter can save you from getting wet in rain but it will not protect you from catching any kind of infection. This is especially when your immune system is very low.
Precaution has always been a better option than cure. Very unfortunately, there are still a large number of people who are not aware of the diseases that appear during the rainy season. Besides, it is also not possible for all of us to stay aware and alert of the signs and symptoms of the diseases. This is why having knowledge about the monsoon diseases is necessary. Some of those diseases that may appear during rainy season are mentioned below for you.
- Dengue
Dengue is a viral disease caused by the bite of an infected Aedes Aegypti mosquito. It is a widespread occurrence in India during the rainy season. In 2021, the country reported around 1.64 lakh cases alone. The Aedes Aegypti mosquito commonly roams around at dusk and dawn, so one should keep their doors and windows shut during this time. You should also be careful not to leave stagnant water for too long as the mosquitoes breed in buckets, flower vases, water coolers and uncovered barrels. You will likely develop symptoms post an infection within 5-6 days. It can present as – Classical Dengue Fever: This is also referred to the ‘break bone fever’ and the associated symptoms are : High-grade fever, rash, sore throat, headache, red eyes, nausea and vomiting, joint and muscle ache.
Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever: This is a life-threatening condition accompanied by severe symptoms such as: Chills, frontal headache, severe body pain, flushed skin, anorexia (loss of appetite), abdominal pain and tenderness, nose bleed, bruises and petechiae (red spots) on the skin.
- Typhoid
Typhoid is a severe condition caused by Salmonella Typhi bacteria through contaminated food and water. The incubation period of the bacteria is about 7-14 days, during which time you will show signs of: headaches, lethargy, diarrhoea, aches and pains, reduced appetite, and fever that may rise as high as 104 degrees.
- Cold and Flu
Cold and Flu: Common cold and flu also occur in this season. Flu is caused by the influenza virus, which also spreads through droplets just like coronavirus. In case you are having sore, throat, runny nose and fever, go for a check-up as soon as possible. This disease is caused by a virus through respiratory system. A common fever is normal but when it comes to a flu during a rainy season, the complication such as pneumonia may occur. This can cause deadly consequence, especially in children, elderly people, patients with chronic disease, and those who have weakened immune system or take immunosuppressive drugs. Prevention: Wash hands every time you go to a toilet or arrive home, do not stay in confined area, and wear a mask whenever you have weakened immunity.
- Stomach Infections
During monsoon, you can, on average, expect to experience a few issues with your gut or digestive health. This is because the humid weather and an influx of bacterial and viral activity in your surroundings might mess up your stomach, make your digestion sluggish and sometimes even lead to infection. You might experience conditions which may become more pronounced during this time, such as: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Acidity, Indigestion, and ulcers.
- Chikunguya Fever
Similar to dengue, Chikungunya is also caused by the bite of either an infected Aedes Aegypti mosquito and Aedes Albopictus Mosquito. The mosquito will breed in stagnant water, you should check and clear away water daily. Symptoms will include: High fever, debilitating joint pain, myalgia (muscular pain), conjunctivitis (pink, watery eyes), nausea, aggravated arthritis pain, rash or skin bumps, and headache
Staying aware of such diseases can help you take precautionary measures even more carefully. Some of the prevention ways you can do are:
Keep Rain Gear With you Always – The most effective thing that you can do is to keep your rain gear always ready when you go out in rainy season. A raincoat with hooded jacket and waterproof shoes are the best items.
Vitamin C – Increasing the intake of Vitamin C either in natural form or as food supplement will help you drive away the cold virus faster. It is still a matter of debate among doctors whether Vitamin C is cure for cold. However, a healthy supply of this vitamin will activate your antibodies and reduce the severity of cold, undoubtedly.
Shower After Being Caught in Rain – Although it sounds very unusual because if you are drenched in rain, you will never want to take another shower. But taking a shower after you have been caught in rain will protect you from many infections.
Hot Drinks – After you come back home caught in a rain, take a shower, dry yourself and wear dry and clean clothes. The best thing is to make a hot soup for yourself or at least drink a cup of hot milk. This will help you from catching cold or save you from catching any kind of infection that can occur due to sudden change in the temperature of the body.
Cleanliness – Cleanliness is very important during rainy season. Even if you catch a cold, you should clean your hands regularly and use a sanitizer always after that.
Drink Plenty of Water – Water intake may reduce naturally because of the sudden drop in the temperature of the environment. It is good to drink plenty of water and do not wait to get thirsty to drink water. This will help you drain toxins from your body.
Watch your Intake – Try to eat nutritious food and avoid eating out during rainy season. Prepare meal with full precaution and maintain health and hygiene throughout the house.
It is very important to keep yourself protected during the rainy season because you can catch infection frequently. It is always better to take precautions and be prepared whenever you go out of your home.