From altering diets to enhanced hygiene measures, ways to ward off monsoon-related illnesses

A healthy lifestyle is key to cherishing the joys of life. Feeling the breeze, the warmth of the morning sun or the rain, and its earthy fragrance — you can enjoy these bounties of nature only if you are in good health. Hence, it is important to keep a check on your health every day.

In India, the monsoons are generally when there are numerous ailments and outbreak of infectious diseases. Besides, people are more likely to be exposed to bacteria, viruses and other infections during monsoons than in any other season.

While rejoicing in the rains, it is advisable to practice caution, as a little thoughtfulness can ensure that you enjoy the season with all your heart. The monsoon season leads to several waterborne and airborne infections. Medical experts say that practising better hygiene and monitoring one’s health during the season is vital.


“The primary issue in monsoon is water getting contaminated with faecal material, garbage, and it being stored in places where it acts as a breeding ground for mosquitoes,” says Dr NR Shetty, Consultant (Internal Medicine) Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. “Also, consuming water stored without maintaining proper hygiene causes illness. These factors give rise to diseases induced by bacteria and mosquitoes. The most common diseases are monsoon-related diarrhoea, typhoid, malaria, dengue, upper respiratory infections, leptospirosis, cholera, jaundice, influenza, and H1N1, etc.”

According to Dr Shetty, most monsoon diseases are treatable and can be managed with appropriate hydration, antibiotics, supportive treatments, oral rehydration solution and other measures that bring down fever.

The Most Susceptible
According to experts, monsoon illnesses affect all age groups. However, it can be more pronounced in the elderly, children and those with lower immunity. The symptoms usually depend on what a person is infected with. Among the most common symptoms that have been observed include persistent fever, mild respiratory symptoms, diarrhoea, nausea and dehydration.

In the age of the internet, self-diagnosing is a route several people may take when there is a hint of illness. However, medical professionals stress that it is not the best course of action.

“If you suspect a waterborne or an airborne infection, consult a local physician — or a paediatrician if it is a child. They might conduct a few tests and usually give symptomatic treatment in the form of paracetamol or anti-allergic or anti-diarrhoea/anti-emetics. If a person doesn’t improve with initial home management, they might require further evaluation or hospitalisation,” says Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, Senior Consultant, (Internal Medicine), Indraprastha Apollo Hospital.

The Right Diet
Boosting one’s immunity has become a priority for most of us. Especially after the outbreak of Covid-19, people are increasingly opting for healthier diets to stay fit and ward off infections. Nutritionists around the world claim that seasonal infection can be countered with a few changes in dietary intake and adequate exercise.

During this time of the year, avoid food from outside at all costs, says Niyati Naik, Clinical Dietician, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. “With monsoon setting in, the chances of developing an illness increases by several folds, thanks to a damp environment that houses many different types of microorganisms. During this time of the year, the chances of gastrointestinal disorders also increase. Thus, it is very important to make dietary changes based on these factors. One must stick to eating home-cooked food that is not overly spicy or oily. Proper hygiene should be followed while cooking.”

Drink enough water to stay hydrated; add ginger to diet; consume seasonal fruits, gourd vegetables, and probiotics for gut health, adds Naik.

Safety Measures
Dr Chetna Jain, Gynaecologist and Director of Cloud Nine hospital, Gurugram, says that 2020 and 2021 showed fewer instances of illnesses related to monsoons. This, according to her, was mainly because of Covid precautions such as masks, hand sanitisation and social distancing. Jain asserts that as use of masks is gradually dropping, airborne infections may rise this monsoon season. It is important for infants, pregnant women and elderly to avoid crowded and closed spaces.

"They are the most vulnerable groups. These groups have relatively lower immunity. As of now, most healthcare practitioners and establishments treat the disease and its symptoms. While effective treatment and antibiotics are available for bacterial infections and malaria, little is available for dengue, chikungunya and cold cough flu," says Jain.

Staying healthy and mentally fit are the only ways to fight the monsoon blues. So, pick your diet wisely, exercise regularly and enjoy the scenic season.