New Delhi: The arrival of the monsoon brings many rain diseases along with it. As the much-awaited rains bring relief from the summer, there's also an increased vulnerability to a lot of diseases that are common during the season. The contaminated water sources and the changing weather are main factors responsible for it.
The onset of monsoon after an extended hot summer makes an average individual prone to a host of diseases. Some of the diseases associated with monsoon are malaria, jaundice, gastro intestinal infections such as typhoid and cholera.
Apart from these, viral infections such as cold and cough also make their presence felt. Some other diseases that occur during this time are leptospirosis and conjunctivitis.
According to Gurgaon-based general physician Dr Yogesh Mittal said, “Everyone should be prepared for monsoon and ensure they don't get wet. Presently, the city is witnessing light monsoon showers and the humidity is very high. I advise my patients to keep themselves hydrated and drink at least 10 glasses of water a day. People with diabetes, hypertension and low immunity should be more careful on what they eat and drink this season.”
“They should keep their blood sugar levels and blood pressure in control. People who have respiratory problems like asthma too should be very careful. In comparison to the general population, they are more prone to get these diseases and its complications. We advise them to take vaccines that can protect them from typhoid and hepatitis,” he again added.
Contamination of water and unhygienic conditions are very often the cause of many monsoon ailments. Skin conditions, asthma and arthritis also get aggravated because of excess humidity.
In order to prevent water-borne diseases, do not drink water, which is not properly boiled and stored. Drinking water should be boiled and/or properly filtered. Avoid consuming food that is exposed to the surroundings for quite a long time, since food that is exposed for a long time is contaminated by germs, which may cause various infections.
Dr Ritesh Gupta, Additional Director Fortis CDOC, New Delhi says, “During the monsoon, roadside food can lead to various infections and ailments. The reason behind it is that germs & bacteria's often breed during rainy seasons & food items kept in the open are most vulnerable to infections."
“One should also eat green leafy vegetables, as these are good for health. Wash & cleanse these vegetables before consuming them. Try to avoid intake of cut fruits & salads during the rains,” Dr Gupta added.
All these precautions should be take care by every age groups, be it a child or an adult. Mosquito nets and repellents should be used, boiled water; healthy food should be consumed and dirty water, stale food and road side food should be avoided during monsoons.