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As much as we welcome the rains for bringing relief from the scorching summer heat, the monsoon season also raises red flags for healthcare professionals across India. The drop in temperature is comforting, but the increased humidity, water stagnation, and poor sanitation conditions create a perfect breeding ground for a host of infectious diseases.

This shift in the season heightens health risks, especially for kids, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. From mosquito-borne illnesses to water and food-borne infections, the monsoon often triggers a spike in ailments that can strain both individuals and the healthcare system.

Common Infections You Should Watch Out For

“The monsoon season in India, while bringing much-needed relief from the heat, also ushers in a spike in various infectious diseases,” says Dr. Vinus Taneja, Consultant Physician at the Department of Internal Medicine, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.

“High humidity, stagnant water, and fluctuating temperatures create an ideal environment for the proliferation of bacteria, viruses, and disease-carrying mosquitoes.”

Dr. Taneja outlines some of the most common infections that see a rise during this season:

• Dengue And Chikungunya: Both are spread by the Aedes mosquito and typically present with high fever, joint pain, rashes, and severe fatigue.
• Malaria: Transmitted through the Anopheles mosquito, malaria is marked by fever with chills and excessive sweating.
• Typhoid: This waterborne infection is caused by Salmonella bacteria and spreads through contaminated food or drinking water. The symptoms include prolonged fever, weakness, and gastrointestinal distress.
• Hepatitis A and E: Poor hygiene and sanitation increase the risk of viral hepatitis during the monsoon, especially through the consumption of unsafe food and water.
• Respiratory Infections: Common cold, flu, and bronchitis also flare up due to damp conditions and increased viral circulation.
• Skin Infections: Fungal infections become more frequent due to constant dampness, sweating, and wet clothing.

“Timely medical attention and preventive strategies including vaccinations and public health awareness are crucial in reducing the monsoon disease burden,” Dr. Taneja advises.

Tests You Must Not Ignore

With stagnant water, poor drainage, and high humidity creating the perfect storm for infections, prolonged symptoms like fever or diarrhoea during the monsoon should never be taken lightly, especially in India. According to Dr. Pooja Khosla, Co-chairperson and Senior Consultant, Dept. of Internal Medicine, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, “These symptoms may signal underlying illnesses such as dengue, malaria, typhoid, leptospirosis, or gastrointestinal infections.”

She stresses that timely diagnostic testing is crucial for early detection and quicker recovery, and outlines key medical tests that individuals should consider if they experience concerning symptoms.

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is the first step, it flags infection and low platelet count, often linked to dengue or malaria. For malaria, a Peripheral Smear or Malaria Antigen Test confirms the diagnosis. Suspect dengue? Go for NS1 Antigen (early stage) or IgM Antibody Test (later stage). For typhoid, Widal or Typhidot IgM tests are useful. In flood-hit areas, where leptospirosis is a concern, Leptospira IgM ELISA is advised, especially if there’s fever, muscle pain, or jaundice. Persistent diarrhoea? A Stool Test can detect E. coli, Giardia, or Entamoeba. If symptoms include jaundice or fever, also check Liver Function Tests and Hepatitis A & E IgM antibodies.

Dr. Khosla adds, “Early diagnosis and medical guidance can prevent complications. Don’t delay testing during monsoon—it can be lifesaving.”

What To Eat And What To Avoid

Along with relief from summer heat, monsoon also brings a surge in gut-related infections such as food poisoning, diarrhoea, typhoid, and hepatitis A and E. Damp weather, contaminated water, and unhygienic food practices create an ideal environment for these illnesses to spread.

“In monsoon, the risk of gastrointestinal infections increases significantly,” warns Dr. Ashish Kumar, Professor and Senior Consultant, Institute of Liver Gastroenterology & Pancreatico Biliary Sciences, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi.

“To stay safe, it’s important to drink only boiled or filtered water and avoid street-side drinks or unregulated sharbat vendors.”

He further stresses on strict food hygiene:

• Avoid raw or semi-cooked food, as it may harbor bacteria and parasites.
• Always opt for freshly cooked meals that are hot and hygienically prepared.
• Wash all vegetables and fruits thoroughly, using vinegar can help reduce microbial contamination.
• Refrain from consuming milk and dairy products from questionable sources. If drinking milk, make sure it's properly boiled.
• Be extra cautious with green leafy vegetables and only eat them if they’re fresh, clean, and well-cooked.

These dietary precautions are vital in preventing gut infections during the rainy season, especially in urban areas where waterlogging and food contamination are common. Being mindful of what goes on your plate is just as important as keeping your surroundings clean.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]