The monsoon season in India, arriving in June and lasting till September, brings a welcome break from the scorching summer heat. While it refreshes the land, the humid conditions create a breeding ground for germs and mosquitoes, leading to a rise in several diseases. This poses a significant health risk, particularly for those who are unaware or unprepared.
List of monsoon diseases that cause fever
Dengue: This mosquito-borne disease, transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, is a major concern in India. Dengue causes high fever, followed by body aches, rashes, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to a drop in platelet count, potentially causing death. Dengue is most prevalent during the day and dusk hours when the Aedes mosquito bites.
Chikungunya: Spread by the Aedes mosquito, chikungunya is another mosquito-borne illness. It causes high fever, severe joint pain, fatigue, and chills. While complications are less frequent than with dengue, chikungunya can lead to inflammation of organs like the retina, heart, and kidneys. Mosquitoes breeding in overhead tanks, coolers, and water sources are responsible for chikungunya transmission.
Malaria: Stagnant water left behind by the monsoon rains becomes a breeding ground for the mosquitoes that transmit malaria. This disease presents with high fever, chills, sweating, and severe anemia. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications like cerebral malaria, seizures, and even death.
Typhoid: This highly contagious disease is caused by consuming contaminated food or water. Typhoid fever causes prolonged high fever, weakness, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems.
Influenza (Flu): The sudden temperature fluctuations during the monsoon season can trigger influenza, a viral infection. Flu symptoms include fever, muscle aches, sore throat, congestion, and cough. While generally mild, influenza can worsen and lead to pneumonia or aggravate chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.
Diarrhoea: Contaminated food or water can also cause diarrhea, another common monsoon illness that often accompanies fever.
Staying Healthy During the Monsoon
With a heightened risk of infections during the monsoon, taking preventive measures is crucial. Here are several crucial steps to protect yourself:
- Vaccinations: Ensure you and your family are up-to-date on vaccinations, particularly for diseases like influenza.
- Nutrition: Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to boost your immune system. Avoid processed and junk food.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of clean, warm water.
- Vitamins: Consider taking vitamins to ensure your body receives the necessary nutrients to fight off infections.
- Hygiene: Regularly wash your hands with soap and water to reduce the transmission of germs.
- Cleanliness: Maintain clean surroundings in your home and eliminate potential mosquito breeding grounds by clearing stagnant water.
- Protection: Use mosquito repellents, wear protective clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to avoid mosquito bites.
- Masks: Consider wearing a mask when venturing outside, especially in crowded places, to prevent the spread of airborne illnesses like flu and cough.
Conclusion
The monsoon season, while a welcome change in weather, brings with it an increased risk of contracting various fevers and illnesses. By understanding the common monsoon diseases and implementing preventive measures like vaccinations, a healthy diet, hygiene practices, and mosquito control, you can significantly reduce your chances of falling ill. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment are essential if you experience any symptoms. Don’t hesitate to consult a doctor for proper testing and guidance to ensure a healthy and enjoyable monsoon season.