Last Updated on August 7, 2023 by Neelam Singh
The monsoon season is a time of relief and rejuvenation for many, bringing much-needed respite from scorching summer temperatures. However, it also heralds the rise of infections and diseases, creating health challenges for communities across the affected regions. In particular, conjunctivitis, viral fever, malaria, and dengue are common ailments that tend to surge during the monsoon.
This monsoon season has particularly seen a surge in conjunctivitis cases across the country. According to reports, all of the eighth-grade schools in Itanagar were closed from July 25 to July 29 in order to stop the spread of the disease. There is an outbreak of conjunctivitis in several parts of Telangana as well, due to incessant rains. As per the data, Maharashtra has seen an increase in conjunctivitis cases over the last two weeks, with the state recording 40,132 instances.
Infections on rise
Monsoon and infections go hand in hand. One of the main reasons for the rise of these infections is the favourable breeding environment provided by the monsoon weather. The increased humidity and stranding water due to heavy rains create breeding grounds for mosquitoes, which are carriers of diseases like malaria and dengue.
Stagnant water in puddles, discarded containers, and waterlogged areas become breeding sites for these disease-transmitting vectors. Additionally, the dampness and high moisture levels during the monsoons promote the growth of fungi and bacteria, leading to infections like conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva (the thin, transparent layer covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids).
“This year, several patients are presenting themselves with red, itchy eyes and pain. The condition is caused by viral and bacterial infections. It spreads easily in crowded areas and through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces,” says Dr. Rekha Patil, Consultant – Opthalmology, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, Bengaluru.
Apart from eye infections, other ailments have also reported a surge. Dr. Aditya Chowti, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, Bengaluru, says there is a 25-30% per cent rise in the number of patients complaining of respiratory illnesses, viral infections, and gastroenteritis this season. “Patients are coming in with viral fever, influenza and the common cold. There is a spike in dengue, chikungunya, cholera, and typhoid cases as well,” he adds.
The damp and cool weather weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to viral infections. Malaria and dengue, transmitted primarily through the bites of infected female mosquitoes, thrive in the wet and humid climate. Monsoon offers ideal environment for the breeding of Anopheles mosquitoes, which carry the malaria parasite, as well as Aedes mosquitoes, responsible for transmitting the dengue and chikungunya viruses. The water-filled containers and rainwater collection sites in and around residential areas become breeding spots for these disease-carrying vectors, leading to outbreaks during the rainy season.
Precaution is must
Individuals must take personal precautions to safeguard their health during the monsoon. These include using mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing, and maintaining personal hygiene. Avoiding crowded places and seeking prompt medical attention at the first sign of illness are essential steps to prevent the spread of infections.
According to Dr. Vittul Gupta, consultant physician, Kishori Ram Hospital, Bathinda, “Precaution is the best option available. These health problems can be prevented, and if not treated, they result in morbidity, mortality, and transmission in the community. Simple preventive strategies include practicing good hygiene on oneself and in the community, implementing local disease-specific precautions, and receiving prompt and appropriate medical attention.”
Doctors also urge people to exercise caution and prevent water from stagnating in their immediate vicinity. Additionally, they advise using masks in crowded areas and drinking only boiling water.
People can also resort to vaccination, but only after consulting a doctor, says Dr. Subrata Das, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine and Diabetology, Sakra World Hospital. “The annual flu vaccine introduces new strains of the vaccine every year around September and October. It is advisable to take the flu vaccine annually. As for typhoid, there is a vaccine available, but it should be taken after consulting your doctor,” explains Dr. Das. Preventing the rise of infections and diseases during the monsoon requires a multi-pronged approach. Public health authorities need to conduct awareness campaigns to educate communities about the importance of cleanliness, proper waste disposal, and the need to eliminate stagnant water. Implementing effective mosquito control measures, such as fumigation and larvicidal treatments, can significantly reduce the mosquito population.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.