The much-awaited monsoon season is here. Providing respite from the summer heat this season is most awaited. However, monsoon also brings along numerous diseases every year due to harmful viruses. The humid climate, heavy rains and windy environment spreads many infectious diseases.
Listing below some common monsoon diseases:
1. Dengue:
Dengue is the most common disease caused during monsoon and is spread through mosquito bites of Aedes aegypti mosquito. Some symptoms include:
- High fever.
- Rashes.
- Headache.
- Low palette count.
- Hypersensitivity.
2. Chikungunya:
Chikungunya is caused by mosquitoes born in stagnated water. These mosquitoes are found in overhead tanks, coolers, plants, utensils and water pipes. This disease is caused by tiger Aedes Albopictus. Some symptoms include:
- Acute joint pain.
- High fever.
- Fatigue.
- Chills.
3. Malaria:
Malaria is spread by Anopheles mosquitoes. Case of this disease increase in monsoon season as there is a problem of water clogging in many areas which makes it a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Some symptoms include:
- High fever.
- Body ache.
- Body chills.
- Sweating.
4. Cholera:
Cholera is caused due to the consumption of contaminated food and water. Poor sanitation and hygiene also cause it. Cholera needs immediate treatment because it can cause death within hours. Some symptoms include:
- Low blood pressure.
- Muscle cramps.
- Rapid heart rate.
- Dry mucous membrane.
5. Typhoid:
Typhoid is a highly infectious monsoon-related disease. This disease is usually caused by contaminated food and water. Some symptoms include:
- Prolonged high fever
- Weakness.
- Abdominal Pain.
- Constipation.
- Headaches.
- Vomiting.
6. Viral fever:
This is a common disease throughout the year but is more prominent during monsoon season. Some symptoms include:
- Fever.
- Fatigue.
- Dizziness.
- Weakness.
- Body chills.
- Muscle, body and joint pain.
7. Diarrhoea:
Diarrhoea is one of the most common health complaints during monsoon season. It can range from a temporary condition to a potential life-threatening one. This can be caused due to the consumption of unhygienic food and water. Some symptoms include:
- Loose watery stools.
- Abdominal cramps.
- Fever.
- Bloating.
- Nausea.
- Blood in the stool.
8. Common cold and flu:
The sudden change in weather, causing fluctuations in temperature, is the main cause of cold and flu during the rainy season. During monsoons, the immune system weakens and becomes vulnerable to cough, cold and flu. Some symptoms include:
- Fever.
- Aching muscles.
- Runny nose.
- Sneezing.
- Congestion.
9. Leptospirosis:
This is a bacterial infection which is transmitted from animals to humans. Cover any open bruises or cuts. This diseases usually spread through open wounds while walking through water-logged areas. Some symptoms include:
- High fever.
- Headache.
- Muscle aches.
- Abdominal pain and diarrhoea.
- Rashes.
10. Stomach Infections:
Stomach infections happen when you consume unhygienic food and liquid products. Gastroenteritis is one common stomach infection that occurs in this season. Drinking enough boiled water and home cooked food is advised in this situation. Some symptoms include:
- Low-grade fever.
- Nausea, vomiting or both.
- Abdominal cramps and pain.
- Diarrhoea.
How to prevent Monsoon Diseases?
Here are a few tips to follow to stay away from diseases:
1. Try to keep your home and surroundings mosquito free.
2. Use a mosquito repellent and wear full sleeved clothes while stepping out.
3. Avoid visiting crowded places to reduce your risk of viral infections.
4. Drink only boiled water.
5. Consume fresh homemade food.
6. Make sure your home is well ventilated.
7. Washing hands before eating any food.
8. Avoid touching your nose and mouth with your hand without washing them.
Play safe this monsoon, Eat a healthy diet and keep yourself away from mosquito bites. However if you or a family member especially children suffer from any illness, do not take it lightly. Many symptoms can be misleading and need medical attention.
Consult doctors at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. Please find below website for more details:
