Monsoon Diseases: Symptoms And Prevention

As the monsoon clouds roll in, they bring relief from the scorching heat of summer, and a sense of joy permeates the air. Despite the risks of sickness from rain, monsoon season is a time of delight for people of all ages. Children happily splash in puddles, while adults find solace in the rhythmic pitter-patter of raindrops on rooftops.

Rainy Season Diseases And Prevention

Here are a few prevalent diseases that are frequent during this season that you should be aware of. Understanding the preventive measures for these diseases is essential to safeguard you and your family.

Influenza (Cold and Flu):

Influenza, commonly referred to as the cold or flu, is a viral respiratory illness that tends to be prevalent, particularly during the rainy season. This infectious disease is known to cause widespread discomfort among those affected, often manifesting with symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue.

While many individuals experience mild symptoms that resolve on their own with rest and adequate hydration, in some cases, influenza can lead to more severe complications, including pneumonia. Therefore, it’s essential to take preventive measures such as vaccination, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals to reduce the risk of contracting the flu and its potential complications.

Symptoms:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body ache
• Headache
• Fatigue

Preventive measures:

– Practicing good hand hygiene.

– Avoiding close contact with sick individuals.

– Covering nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing.

– Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.

Mosquito-Borne Diseases:

Dengue:

Dengue fever, transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, poses a significant health threat during the rainy season in tropical and subtropical regions. Dengue can escalate into life-threatening complications if left untreated.

Symptoms:

• High fever
• Severe headache
•  Joint and muscle pain
•  Rash

To prevent dengue:

– Use mosquito repellent.

– Wear long-sleeved clothing.

– Remove stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.

Malaria:

Another mosquito-borne illness, malaria, caused by the Plasmodium parasite, remains a concern in rainy regions. It has the potential for severe complications and death, particularly in young children and pregnant women.

Symptoms:

• Fever
• Chills
• Sweats
• Headache
• Nausea

Preventive measures:

– Sleeping under insecticide-treated nets.

– Taking anti-malarial medication if in endemic areas.

– Using mosquito repellents containing DEET.

Waterborne Diseases:

Cholera:

Cholera, a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water or food, can lead to severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and even death if untreated.

Symptoms:

• Profuse watery diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Leg cramps

Preventive actions:

– Drinking only boiled or purified water.

– Practicing proper hygiene, especially handwashing.

– Avoid raw or undercooked foods.

Typhoid:

The bacterium Salmonella typhi causes typhoid fever.  It spreads through contaminated food and water. It can lead to life-threatening complications such as intestinal perforation.

Symptoms:

• Sustained fever
• Headache
• Stomach pains
• Weakness

Prevention involves:

– Vaccination where available.

– Consuming only thoroughly cooked food.

– Drinking safe water from reliable sources.

Hepatitis A:

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious viral liver infection transmitted through contaminated food or water, affecting the liver. It causes symptoms ranging from mild illness to severe jaundice.

Symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Jaundice

Preventive measures:

– Vaccination.

– Washing hands before eating or preparing food.

– Avoid consuming raw or undercooked shellfish.

Gastroenteritis:

Gastroenteritis is commonly known as stomach flu. It is an inflammation of the stomach and intestine, typically caused by viral or bacterial infections. It spreads through contaminated food, water, or contact with an infected person.

Symptoms:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal cramps
• Fever

Preventive measures:

– Maintaining proper sanitation.

– Drink clean water and consume hygienic food.

– Washing hands frequently, especially before eating or after using the toilet.

 

The humid weather during the rainy season creates ideal conditions for microorganisms to thrive. As you step out to enjoy the rain, be mindful of the symptoms of rain fever, a common ailment during this time. Symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches. While rain can be enjoyable, it’s essential to be aware of the potential health risks associated with exposure to wet conditions and take necessary precautions to stay healthy. You can order your medications from Medical Store – an online pharmacy in Pakistan – for hassle-free delivery to your doorstep in the rainy season.