Brain infections: Weakened immune system, poor sanitation during monsoon can increase its risk

Symptoms of brain infections often include severe headache, fever, altered mental state, and neurological deficits. (Image: Canva)

Brain infections, also known as central nervous system infections, are serious conditions caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. These infections can lead to inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), the membranes surrounding the brain (meningitis), or the brain's blood vessels (vasculitis). Symptoms often include severe headache, fever, altered mental state, and neurological deficits. Rapid diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications or fatality. Factors like weakened immune systems, poor sanitation, and environmental changes, such as those during monsoons, can increase the risk of brain infections, highlighting the need for vigilant prevention and timely medical intervention.

According to Anuket Nigam, Delhi-based neurologist and senior consultant with Felix healthcare, understanding these factors is essential for effective prevention and management for brain infections.

Increased exposure to waterborne pathogens

Contaminated water: Heavy rainfall and flooding can contaminate drinking water sources with harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, increasing the risk of infections.

Stagnant water: Puddles and stagnant water become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other vectors that transmit diseases like Japanese encephalitis.

Poor sanitation and hygiene

Overflowing sewage: Flooding often leads to the overflow of sewage systems, spreading pathogens that can cause severe infections.

Limited access to clean water: During monsoons, access to clean water may be limited, leading to poor hygiene practices and increased risk of infection.

Increased vector activity

Mosquito proliferation: The monsoon season creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, which can transmit viruses like West Nile virus and Zika virus, both of which can lead to brain infections.

Rodent activity: Flooding can displace rodents, leading them to invade human habitats and spread diseases like leptospirosis, which can affect the brain.

Compromised immune system

Nutritional deficiencies: The disruption of food supplies during monsoons can lead to malnutrition, weakening the immune system and making individuals more susceptible to infections.

Increased stress: The stress associated with flooding and displacement can further weaken immune defenses, increasing the risk of infections.

Overcrowded living conditions

Shelter congestion: Displacement due to flooding often forces people into crowded shelters, facilitating the spread of infectious diseases.

Poor ventilation: Overcrowded and poorly ventilated shelters can increase the risk of airborne infections, including those affecting the brain.

Lack of medical facilities

Access issues: Flooding can damage infrastructure, making it difficult to access medical facilities and receive timely treatment.

Resource shortages: Increased demand for medical care during monsoons can strain healthcare resources, leading to inadequate treatment and prevention measures.

By addressing these factors through improved sanitation, vector control, and access to healthcare, the risk of brain infections during monsoons can be significantly reduced.