Monsoon diseases: How to stay healthy and reduce risks of illness during monsoons

Monsoon no doubt is the favourite seasonas it gives a welcome break from the sweltering summer heat. However, apart from livening up the weather, unfortunately it is the season that brings with it a slew of diseases, threats and significantly impacts our immunity. Dengue, malaria, and scrub typhus are all threats to humans as mosquitoes love to reproduce and proliferate during this season. However, all you require to do is to follow below given health tips to safeguard from deadly diseases and strengthen immunity.

The extreme temperature swings and high humidity of this season render one vulnerable to a variety of viruses that cause colds and flu. During this period, eating a balanced diet with immunity-boosting foods, and drinking enough water will help protect you from viral infections. Try medicinal drinks or concoctions such as honey & water or herbal teas that can aid to protect the respiratory as well as the immune system. Exercise and adequate sleep will anyway remains the vital component of a strengthened immune system.

During the monsoon, diseases like typhoid and hepatitis A spread more easily due to polluted food and water. Only use filtered or boiled water, and never use water that has been sitting for a couple of hours. Consume light, freshly prepared meals. Avoid raw veggies, particularly leafy ones, and inspect all vegetables and fruit for muck, larvae, rot, and other contaminants before eating. Most importantly, all agricultural food should be thoroughly washed.

Another concern that is unique to this season is fungus infections, particularly in the foot. Every day, clean and dry your feet completely, especially if they have been saturated in rain or mud. Wearing wet shoes for an extended period of time is not recommended. Apply balms or moisturiser that contains antifungal or antibiotic properties after thoroughly drying your feet to prevent any skin related issues.

To avoid infection from diseases caused by the buildup of extra sweat and filth due to humidity, it is recommended to shower twice a day on chilly monsoon days. Don’t forget to wash your clothes on a regular basis and, if feasible, dry them in the sun and/or iron them before wearing them. This kills the spores of the fungus and prevents skin diseases.

Allergy sufferers may find that the monsoon season worsens or induces other new symptoms. Hence it is advisable to stay away from known allergens, and keep your anti-allergic medications on hand at all times as this is the season with optimum temperature promoting breeding of several deadly insects or antigens.

Avoid strolling on wet pavements and roads, as these serve as mosquito breeding grounds. Use insect repellents and disinfectants like neem leaves and cloves to lower the risk of infections spread by mosquitoes and flies. Avoid allowing water to stagnate in and around your home, and encourage others to do the same. In case you find any such source make sure to disinfect it to prevent any parasitic or air borne diseases.