Protect Yourself from Monsoon-related Diseases

The Monsoons indubitably gives a blissful relief from the scorching heat, dirt and pollution we get to experience during the summers. However, this lovely season has its own set of cons, which we should not ignore. The Monsoons also provide a perfect platform for infections and allergies aggravated by humidity. Read on to learn more about all the common monsoon-related illness and what you can do to prevent them or protect yourself from them.

Types of Monsoon Illnesses:

Cold and Flu (Influenza)

It is one of the common conditions, which occurs during the rainy season. It is contagious and can spread directly from person to person. The symptoms of influenza include; runny or stuffy nose, pain in the body, throat infection and fever. One must visit a doctor to get proper medication. To prevent influenza, it is important to consume a healthy, nutritious, and a well-balanced meal regularly. The best way to protect yourself from influenza is to get vaccinated every year.

Cholera 

Cholera is a deadly monsoon disease caused when one consumes contaminated food or water. The common signs of cholera include; diarrhoea, vomiting, and muscle cramps. Usually, diarrhoea gets so bad that it leads to severe water loss, electrolyte imbalance or dehydration in just a few hours. In the most severe cases, the rapid loss of large amounts of fluids and electrolytes can lead to death within hours. Hence, it requires immediate medical attention. You can prevent cholera by eliminating poor sanitation and hygiene. Also, make sure that you always consume pure water and wash hands frequently.

Typhoid

Typhoid is a water-borne disease caused by a bacteria called Salmonella. This occurs due to poor sanitation methods and contaminated water or food. Symptoms of typhoid include; headache, severe abdominal pain, extended high fever, and vomiting. The riskiest factor about thyroid is that even after the patient is treated, the infection may remain in the gallbladder. To prevent typhoid, practice good hygiene, drink clean water, and wash hands frequently.

Hepatitis A 

Hepatitis A is a viral inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis A is caused by hepatitis A virus (HAV). Transmission occurs by the faecal-oral route or consumption of contaminated food or water. The major symptom of Hepatitis A is an inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis signs and symptoms can include; jaundice, stomach pains, loss of appetite, nausea, fever, diarrhoea, and tiredness. The best way to prevent hepatitis A is through vaccination with the hepatitis A vaccine. Practising good personal hygiene is also essential to reducing the risk of hepatitis.

Dengue 

Dengue Fever is caused by a family of viruses, which is then transported and transmitted in human beings via mosquitoes. The mosquitoes responsible for this outbreak are known as Aedes (tiger) mosquitoes. They come with black and white stripes and usually bite during mornings. Dengue is also known as Break Bone Fever. The symptoms of dengue include; fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, severe muscle pain, extreme joint pain, tiredness, exhaustion, and rashes. The complication which takes place due to dengue fever is known as the Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF). It usually affects children under the age of 10, which causes abdominal pain, bleeding, and circulatory collapse.

To prevent this disease, it is important to practice all the safety methods to help keep the mosquitoes away. Using mosquito repellents can be very helpful. It is also extremely necessary to avoid accumulation of water as it can turn into a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Malaria 

Malaria is a common monsoon disease caused by a Female Anopheles mosquito. These mosquitoes need dirty, stagnant water to breed and the monsoon provides them with the perfect opportunity. The deadliest type of malaria is P. falciparum and Cerebral malaria. Other forms of malaria include; P. malariae, P. ovale, and P. vivax. Malaria causes symptoms that typically include high fever, chills, and body aches. Immediate medical attention is necessary, failing which serious medical complications may arise. To prevent malaria, maintain a high level of hygiene in your home. Get rid of stagnant water since that is where mosquitoes breed.

Prevention Methods 

•   Always drink clean water.
•   Always cover your mouth or nose while sneezing or coughing.
•   Use effective mosquito repellent.
•   Wear dry clothes to avoid fungal infections.
•   Keep a hand sanitizer handy and use it frequently.
•   Try to avoid crowded places.
•   Get rid of stagnant water.