Beware of Mosquito-Borne Diseases During the Monsoons

Monsoon definitely brings relief from the intense summer heat but also brings an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases. These diseases are spread when a mosquito bites an infected person and then bites another person, transferring the disease-causing spread. The monsoon season is especially dangerous because still water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. You and your family can stay safe throughout this period if you are aware of these common monsoon illnesses and precautions.

What are Common Monsoon Diseases and How to Prevent Them?

Monsoon is synonymous with a number of health issues, including mosquito-borne diseases. Here are some common monsoon diseases and prevention tips to help you stay healthy during this season. For expert advice and treatment, visiting the best hospital in Delhi can ensure you get the proper care and guidance to protect yourself and your family.

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is a viral illness which is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, particularly Aedes aegypti.

Symptoms of Dengue

Symptoms can vary in severity but typically include the following:

• A sudden increase in high fever
• Severe headaches
• Significant joint and muscle pain
• Pain behind the eyes
• Nausea, vomiting
• swollen glands and rashes. 

Prevention Tips:

• Use Mosquito Repellents: Applying mosquito repellents on exposed skin can greatly reduce the chances of getting bitten. Products with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are particularly effective.
• Wear Long Sleeves and Pants: Wearing long sleeves and long pants can act as a physical barrier against mosquito bites, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when mosquito activity is at its peak.
• Avoid Water Stagnation: Mosquitoes breed in still water. Hence it is important to regularly empty and clean water containers, change the water in pet dishes and plant trays, and ensure that water storage containers are properly covered to get rid of possible breeding grounds.

Malaria

Malaria is a dangerous parasitic disease caused by the bite of female Anopheles mosquito carrying the infection. 

Symptoms of Malaria

These symptoms usually occur a few weeks after the bite of an infected mosquito.

• Cycles of chills
• Fever, and sweating
• Headache
• Nausea & vomiting
• flu-like illness

If left untreated, malaria can lead to severe complications like cerebral malaria, anemia, and organ failure, which can be fatal.

Prevention Tips:

• Use Mosquito Nets: Since Anopheles mosquitoes are most active at night, sleeping under mosquito nets can provide effective protection against mosquito bites.
• Avoid Areas with Stagnant Water: Avoid places with standing water, such as ponds, marshes, and ditches, to minimize mosquito breeding. Cover or remove any water containers whenever possible.
• Take Anti-Malaria Medication: When traveling to areas where malaria is common, taking antimalarial medicines as prescribed by a healthcare professional can significantly reduce the risk of catching the disease.

Chikungunya

The virus that causes chikungunya is carried by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito which can include Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti. 

Symptoms of Chikungunya

• Severe joint pain and swelling, which can remain for months or even years in some cases.
• Sudden increase in fever
• Maculopapular rash
• Muscle pain, 
• Headache, and fatigue. 

While chikungunya is rarely deadly, it can cause persistent pain and long-term joint issues that affect the quality of life.

Prevention Tips

• Use Insect Repellents: Applying insect repellents to the skin and clothing can effectively reduce the likelihood of mosquito bites. Products with DEET, IR3535, or icaridin are particularly effective.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, preferably treated with insect repellent, provides a barrier against mosquito bites.
• Eliminate Breeding Grounds: Ensuring that there are no places for mosquitoes to lay eggs is highly important for the safety of your entire family. Dispose of any old tires, buckets, and other containers that can collect water, as well as regularly change water in outdoor pots and birdbaths.

Yellow Fever

It is yet another virus that the Aedes mosquito spreads.

Symptoms of Yellow Fever 

• Mild fever
• Chills
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Back discomfort
• Headache, and fatigue

Prevention Tips:

• Vaccination: Get the yellow fever vaccine, which offers over 95% protection.
• Avoid Mosquito Bites: Use repellents, wear protective clothing, and sleep under treated mosquito nets to prevent bites from infected mosquitoes.
• Eliminate Breeding Sites: Remove still water and maintain personal hygiene by washing hands and avoiding street food, especially during monsoon.

Zika Virus

Aedes mosquitoes again are the source of Zika virus. It also causes side effects including neurological diseases and birth abnormalities.

Symptoms of Zika Virus

It has symptoms similar to those of dengue including:

• Fever
• Headache
• Rash
• Joint pain & red eyes

Prevention Tips:

• Avoid Traveling to Zika-Affected Areas: Avoid visiting areas where the Zika virus is currently spreading, especially if you are pregnant as there is a chance of birth abnormalities.
• Use Mosquito Repellents: Use creams or sprays that repel mosquitoes especially with DEET or picaridin to exposed skin and clothing to prevent bites from Aedes mosquitoes that can transmit the Zika virus.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Cover your arms and legs properly especially in areas where Zika is prevalent, to reduce skin exposure and minimize mosquito bites.

Why Should You Not Ignore Flu During Monsoon? What Are the Severe Risks?

Ignoring flu during monsoon can lead to serious complications, as dengue, malaria, and chikungunya have symptoms similar to flu. If you leave the flu untreated, it can lead to pneumonia or worsen existing health conditions. Moreover, flu is contagious and can easily spread to others. Ignorance can lead to severe risks, including complications that may require specialized treatment at the top hospitals in Delhi NCR to ensure proper care and recovery.

Severe Risks:

• Pneumonia: Flu can develop into pneumonia, especially in the elderly and those with weak immune systems.
• Exacerbation of Chronic Conditions: Conditions like asthma and heart disease can worsen.
• High Fever and Dehydration: It can also lead to severe fatigue and dehydration.

Best Precautions from Illness During Monsoon

Taking precautions is essential to stay healthy during the monsoon season. Here’s how you can do it:

What Precautions Should You Take?

• • Drink Boiled Water: Avoid contaminated water to prevent water-borne diseases.
  • Eat Fresh, Home-Cooked Food: Avoid street food to prevent gastrointestinal infections.
  • Keep Your Environment Clean: Remove stagnant water and ensure good sanitation.
  • Use Mosquito Repellents and Nets: Protect yourself from mosquito bites.
  • Wear Full-Sleeved Clothes: Cover your body to avoid mosquito bites.

How to Maintain Hygiene?

• • • Wash Hands Regularly: Use soap and water to wash away germs.
    • Take Regular Showers: Maintain personal cleanliness to avoid infections.
    • Disinfect Your Home: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces.

When Should You Be Extra Cautious

• • After Rainfall: Check for stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed.
  • During Travel: Be cautious when traveling to areas with high mosquito prevalence.
  • If You Have Children or Elderly at Home: They are more susceptible to infections.

When to See a Doctor? How to Know It’s Time?

Knowing when to seek medical help is important to avoid complications. Here’s what to look for:

What Symptoms Should Prompt a Doctor Visit?

• • High Fever: Persistent fever above 101°F.
  • Severe Headache: Accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
  • Unexplained Rash: Especially if it spreads.
  • Joint and Muscle Pain: Severe pain that restricts movement.
  • Difficulty Breathing: Indicates a serious condition.

How to Identify Severe Symptoms?

• • Constant Fatigue: Beyond normal tiredness.
  • Persistent Cough: Lasting more than a week.
  • Frequent Vomiting: Leading to dehydration.
  • Confusion or Drowsiness: Could indicate encephalitis or other serious issues.

When to Seek Immediate Help?

• • Severe Dehydration: Inability to retain fluids.
  • Symptoms of Dengue or Malaria: High fever, chills, and severe body pain.
  • Worsening Condition: If symptoms worsen despite home care.

Conclusion

By understanding these risks and taking appropriate precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. If you experience any of these symptoms, we advise you to seek timely medical help from trusted institutions like PSRI Hospital. Here we offer a comprehensive range of services, including advanced diagnostics, specialized treatments for infectious diseases, and Weight Loss Surgery In India. With a dedicated team of experienced healthcare professionals and state-of-the-art facilities, we provide exceptional care in various fields such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. Prioritizing your health during this season is crucial to avoid complications and ensure a safe, healthy monsoon. Choosing PSRI Hospital will ensure that you receive world-class treatment and compassionate care customized to your individual needs.

FAQs

How can I prevent mosquito bites during monsoon?

Ans. Use mosquito repellent, wear protective clothing, and avoid stagnant water.

What are the symptoms of dengue fever?

Ans. High fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and rash.

Why is it important to drink boiled water during monsoon?

Ans. To prevent water-borne diseases like cholera and typhoid.

When should I consult a doctor for fever?

Ans. If the fever persists for more than two days or is accompanied by severe symptoms.

How can I maintain hygiene during monsoon?

Ans. Regular hand washing, personal cleanliness, and keeping your environment clean.