Monsoon health tips: 7 healthy habits that will save you from rainy season diseases

How to avoid food contamination: Consuming food from roadside stalls increases the risk of food contamination and water-borne diseases (Image: Canva)

As the monsoon season begins, so do the health risks that come with it. Rainy season brings with it a variety of illnesses that can affect both your mood and well-being. Adapting your lifestyle habits is crucial to protecting yourself from these monsoon-related ailments.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), common illnesses surge during rainy season, including water-borne diseases like cholera and typhoid, vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever, and respiratory infections like flu and pneumonia.

Mosquitoes thrive during this season, using stagnant water as breeding grounds, which escalates the prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria, says Dr Anita Mathew, Director of Internal Medicine and Consultant in Infectious Diseases at Fortis Hospital, Mulund. “Viral infections such as colds, flu, and gastrointestinal illnesses become more common due to heightened humidity and moisture levels,” she adds.

Dr Mathew shares 7 lifestyle changes to keep healthy and safe during monsoon:

Avoid contaminated water: After heavy rains, avoid wading through contaminated water as it may contain sewage and pollutants. If exposed, thoroughly wash feet and legs with soap and water to prevent infections.

Avoid roadside food: Consuming food from roadside stalls increases the risk of food contamination and water-borne diseases. Opt for freshly cooked meals at home or reputable eateries to minimise this risk.

Drink boiled water: Boiling water before drinking is important to kill harmful bacteria and parasites that may be present, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal infections.

Boost immunity: Eat healthy diet. Include immune-boosting foods like citrus fruits, garlic, and ginger in your diet. A strong immune system helps fight off infections more effectively.

Keep food covered: Covering food prevents flies and other insects from contaminating it, ensuring it remains safe for consumption.

Maintain cleanliness: Eliminating stagnant water around your home prevents mosquitoes from breeding. Regular cleaning of gutters, flower pots, and unused containers is essential.

Practice hand hygiene: Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, or use alcohol-based sanitisers. This helps kill germs and prevent the spread of infections. Washing hands, especially before meals, prevents germs from contaminated surfaces from entering your mouth, thus reducing the likelihood of infections.