The surge of diseases during Monsoon in India

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Every year with the onset of the Monsoon from July to September comes a surge in all sorts of illnesses, predominantly viral diseases, Upper respiratory tract infections, Gastrointestinal diseases, water-borne diseases, skin diseases, and so on. 

There is an epidemic of viral diseases like Dengue fever and Chikungunya. These are mosquito-borne diseases and are spread due to the increase in mosquitoes in monsoons due to flooding and water-logging.  In addition, stagnant water, and high moisture content in homes can lead to mold growth, contaminating the air with mold spores. This can worsen respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis and also cause upper respiratory tract infections. High humidity can increase the growth of fungus and worsen skin conditions such as athlete's foot and other fungal infections. High humidity can increase sebum production which clogs pores and worsens acne. Monsoons cause contamination of water and this leads to water-borne diseases like cholera, typhoid, dysentery, and other gastrointestinal diseases. 

The reason behind the surge of these diseases in monsoons is mainly due to urbanization and poor sanitary conditions. Builders are focused on making cities concrete jungles with little to no soil for water absorption. Also, drainage systems are not developed as per the population and this leads to stagnant water, water logging, and contamination of water. In addition to this, poor immunity and nutrition of the population make them susceptible to these diseases. 

Measures to be taken to prevent these diseases include - avoiding stagnation of water, leaving no water uncovered, using mosquito nets, repellents, and creams, trying your best to keep the home dry, and preventing the growth of mold. In addition, avoiding street and junk food is important to prevent waterborne diseases. Eating fresh, warm, home-cooked food, drinking properly filtered or boiled water, and taking vitamin D and vitamin C supplements to optimize immunity can help in avoiding and fighting the surge of diseases in Monsoons. 

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