The season of rains is here again and we are all set to enjoy it irrespective of our age. There are people whose idea of enjoying the drizzle is gorging on their favourite ‘pakoras’ and ‘chai’ while watching the lovely weather from the comfort of their homes. But there are people who want to go out and enjoy the season dancing in the rain. You are at risk of falling ill in the season and probably this is the last thing you would want should come between you and monsoon enjoyment. With enjoyment also comes the infectious disease in the rainy season that can cause you to fall ill and keep you away from enjoying rains.
In order to keep yourself safe, you need to know about infectious diseases in the rainy season and need to stay away from and know their remedies, in case you fall prey.
Some of the most common infectious diseases in the rainy season are:
- Malaria
This is the most common disease that catches you in the rainy season. The disease is spread by female Anopheles mosquito. Since there is a problem of waterlogging during the rainy season, mosquitoes get conducive conditions to breed. This is the most dangerous disease in India with the highest number of deaths credited to it.
- Causes
Malaria is a life-threatening disease. It’s typically transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. Infected mosquitoes carry the Plasmodium parasite. When this mosquito bites you, the parasite is released into your bloodstream.
Symptoms
Symptoms of malaria include fever and flu-like illness, including shaking chills, headaches, muscle aches and tiredness. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can also occur. Malaria may cause anaemia and jaundice. Delaying treating malaria can lead to further complications like kidney failure or severe anaemia.
- Prevention
Since this disease is spread by mosquitoes, so mosquito repellents and nets should be used to prevent it. Also make sure that water does not stagnate in your area as mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Use DDT in the drains near your home.
Do not ignore any symptoms of malaria and consult your doctor immediately if you feel any sign of the disease.
- Cholera
Cholera is another deadly disease that spreads during the rainy season. This disease is caused by contaminated food and water. Also, poor hygienic conditions help this disease to spread. It normally spreads in places with poor sanitation facilities.
Severe diarrhea with watery stools is the most common symptom of Cholera. There could also be vomiting with immediate water loss and muscle cramps.
- Causes
Cholera is caused by bacteria called Vibrio cholera. The disease’s deadly effects are the result of a strong toxin known as CTX that is produced by these bacteria in your small intestine. CTX interferes with the normal flow of sodium and chloride when it binds to your intestinal walls. When the bacteria attach to the small intestine’s walls, your body begins to secrete large amounts of water that lead to diarrhea and rapid loss of fluids and salts.
- Prevention
It is always wise to get vaccinated as it lasts secures you for almost six months. Keep the drinking water clean and boil it before using, if possible. Also, maintain personal hygiene and good sanitation.
- Typhoid
This is another highly infectious disease that spreads during the monsoon season. This disease is caused by contaminated food and water. The worst part is that the infection of this disease can remain in the gall bladder of the patient even after he is cured. This could prove fatal for the patient.
The most common symptom of this disease is prolonged fever. Severe pain in abdomen and headache also indicate towards this disease.
Causes – The main cause of Typhoid is a bacteria known as Salmoella enterica Typhi (S.Typhi), which is usually caught by eating or drinking water containing bacteria from the faeces of an infected person. Other causes include:
- Using a toilet contaminated with bacteria and touching your mouth before washing your hands
- Eating seafood from a water source contaminated by infected faeces or urine
- Eating raw vegetables that have been fertilized with human waste
- Contaminated milk products
Prevention
This is a highly communicable disease so the patient should be isolated from the rest of the family. Getting a vaccination in advance also helps. The patients should get a high intake of fluid to prevent dehydration.
Follow the above easy tips to keep yourself safe and away from the infectious diseases this rainy season without having to sacrifice the joy of the season. Happy monsoon!
Ayushakti’s mission is to help people in every possible way. You can consult our experts on phone or video. We will suggest diet & home remedies for maintaining your wellbeing in these difficult times. Book your consultation here https://bit.ly/31YnP1b
For more information write to us at info@ayushakti.com
You may contact us on our toll-free numbers – 18002663001 (India) & +18002800906 (Global)
Author of the Blog: Dr. Ramchandra Konduskar
Expert Review By: Dr Smita Pankaj Naram
Co-Founder, Ayushakti Ayurved Pvt Ltd