Know the Monsoon Diseases... Prevent Them...
As we transition from the intense summer heat to the cool embrace of the monsoon, it is important to understand and stay cautious about certain diseases that may accompany this season. With awareness and a few preventive measures, one can enjoy the monsoon without falling prey to major illnesses.
The truth is, many monsoon-related diseases can be prevented through seemingly simple precautions.
Diarrheal Diseases
Diarrhea and vomiting are the major culprits during the monsoon. Viral or bacterial infections can cause diarrheal diseases. Contaminated water mixed with pathogens from human and animal waste, or through vectors like flies, which transfer germs to food, are the usual causes.
By washing food items thoroughly before use, storing them safely, drinking only boiled or filtered water, and avoiding open defecation, one can avoid most diarrheal diseases.
Cholera, once a deadly disease causing widespread deaths, has now become rare with improved sanitation. However, it still appears in areas with poor hygiene. The primary symptoms include severe diarrhea and vomiting without fever. Without timely treatment, rapid dehydration can lead to death.
Most cases of diarrhea and vomiting, with or without fever, can resolve within two or three days with plenty of fluids and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). However, if dehydration is not managed properly, complications like kidney failure can occur. Seeking timely medical care is essential.
Typhoid is another significant monsoon illness. Caused by the Salmonella bacteria, typhoid spreads through contaminated water or food. Symptoms include high fever, vomiting, mild diarrhea, constipation, headache, and occasionally a faint red rash on the chest and abdomen. Typhoid fever may initially resemble viral fever but becomes more severe in the second week.
If untreated, complications like ulcers in the small intestine, intestinal perforation, and even neurological symptoms can occur. The Widal test, used for diagnosing typhoid, is an outdated and unreliable method.
Hepatitis A, commonly seen during the end of summer and the onset of the monsoon, is caused by the hepatitis A virus. Its transmission is similar to that of typhoid. Early symptoms include fever, followed by vomiting, loss of appetite, and yellowing of the eyes and urine. Rest and easily digestible food are essential for recovery. Contrary to popular belief, there is no need to avoid salt during recovery.
While it usually resolves on its own within a few weeks, hepatitis A can occasionally become severe. The commonly known "jaundice vaccine" is not for hepatitis A, though a vaccine against it does exist but is not widely used.
 

Know the Monsoon Diseases... Prevent Them...
As we transition from the intense summer heat to the cool embrace of the monsoon, it is important to understand and stay cautious about certain diseases that may accompany this season. With awareness and a few preventive measures, one can enjoy the monsoon without falling prey to major illnesses.
The truth is, many monsoon-related diseases can be prevented through seemingly simple precautions.
Diarrheal Diseases
Diarrhea and vomiting are the major culprits during the monsoon. Viral or bacterial infections can cause diarrheal diseases. Contaminated water mixed with pathogens from human and animal waste, or through vectors like flies, which transfer germs to food, are the usual causes.
By washing food items thoroughly before use, storing them safely, drinking only boiled or filtered water, and avoiding open defecation, one can avoid most diarrheal diseases.
Cholera, once a deadly disease causing widespread deaths, has now become rare with improved sanitation. However, it still appears in areas with poor hygiene. The primary symptoms include severe diarrhea and vomiting without fever. Without timely treatment, rapid dehydration can lead to death.
Most cases of diarrhea and vomiting, with or without fever, can resolve within two or three days with plenty of fluids and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). However, if dehydration is not managed properly, complications like kidney failure can occur. Seeking timely medical care is essential.
Typhoid is another significant monsoon illness. Caused by the Salmonella bacteria, typhoid spreads through contaminated water or food. Symptoms include high fever, vomiting, mild diarrhea, constipation, headache, and occasionally a faint red rash on the chest and abdomen. Typhoid fever may initially resemble viral fever but becomes more severe in the second week.
If untreated, complications like ulcers in the small intestine, intestinal perforation, and even neurological symptoms can occur. The Widal test, used for diagnosing typhoid, is an outdated and unreliable method.
Hepatitis A, commonly seen during the end of summer and the onset of the monsoon, is caused by the hepatitis A virus. Its transmission is similar to that of typhoid. Early symptoms include fever, followed by vomiting, loss of appetite, and yellowing of the eyes and urine. Rest and easily digestible food are essential for recovery. Contrary to popular belief, there is no need to avoid salt during recovery.
While it usually resolves on its own within a few weeks, hepatitis A can occasionally become severe. The commonly known "jaundice vaccine" is not for hepatitis A, though a vaccine against it does exist but is not widely used.