What illnesses are common during the monsoon?

Monsoon often triggers health risks like waterborne diseases (typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A), vector-borne infections (dengue, malaria, chikungunya), leptospirosis, respiratory issues (flu, pneumonia), and skin problems such as fungal infections and eczema.

How can I prevent waterborne infections?

Drink only boiled, filtered, or bottled water. Avoid raw salads, cut fruits, avoid roadside food and wash hands frequently.

What is leptospirosis and how can I avoid it?

Leptospirosis is caused by the Leptospira bacteria, spread through water contaminated with urine of infected animals (often rats). Wading through floodwater with cuts or wounds increases risk. It often shows symptoms like fever, chills, severe muscle pain (commonly in the calves), headache, redness in the eyes, and, in some cases, jaundice or kidney complications. To prevent infection, it is important to avoid direct contact with floodwater, wear protective footwear, and keep any wounds properly covered. If fever appears after floodwater exposure, medical consultation should be sought without delay. In high-risk situations, doctors may recommend preventive doxycycline

How can I protect myself from dengue and malaria?

Don’t let water stagnate in containers, coolers, or pots. Also, use mosquito nets and repellents, and wear long-sleeved clothes.

Are skin problems more frequent in the monsoon?

Yes. Humidity and wet clothes encourage fungal infections. Keep skin dry, change wet clothes quickly, and use antifungal powder if needed

How can I boost immunity?

Eat fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables, include Vitamin C-rich foods (lemon, amla, oranges), exercise, sleep well, and stay hydrated.

What should I do if I get a fever in the monsoon?

Never ignore it. Fever could be dengue, malaria, typhoid, or leptospirosis. Seek medical care early, especially if the fever is high, with body pain, rash, or weakness.

How to take care of children during the season?

Ensure safe drinking water, avoid street food, dress them in light clothes, and keep their nails and hands clean. Keep vaccinations up to date.

Author: Dr Jay Deshmukh

Dr Jay Deshmukh is Chief Physician and Director, Sunflower Hospital, Nagpur Honorary Physician to Honorable Governor of Maharashtra and PondicherryCentral. Dr Jay Deshmukh is an M.B.B.S., M.C.P.S., F.C.P.S., M.N.A.M.S., MD From Internal Medicine – Bombay and New Delhi.