Monsoon brings cool weather, and surge in seasonal illnesses

Bengaluru,

The monsoon has finally arrived in Bengaluru, bringing cool breezes, hot chai, endless traffic snarls, and the annual wave of runny noses, viral fevers and other seasonal illnesses that seem to appear right on cue. Residents across the city are already reporting a rise in monsoon-related health issues, with clinics and hospitals witnessing an increase in patients suffering from viral infections.

These illnesses tend to spread more easily during the season due to cold and damp weather, close contact with infected in dividuals – particularly in crowded office spaces – and mosquito bites. “We commonly see a rise in vector-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria and chikungunya, along with water borne illnesses like typhoid, gastroenteritis and hepatitis A,” said Dr Anantha Padmanabha, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Nagarb havi, Bengaluru.

He added that respiratory infections, allergies and fungal skin infections are also frequently reported during this period. According to him, the monsoon acts as a breeding ground for mosquitoes, bacteria and viruses. High humidity, waterlogged areas, and contaminated food and drinking water create ideal conditions for these disease-causing organisms to multiply rapidly.

Individuals should pay close attention to the duration and severity of their symptoms, as prolonged high fever, severe headaches, joint and muscle pain, skin rashes, bleeding gums, chills, excessive sweating, fatigue and vomiting may indicate diseases such as malaria, dengue and chikungunya. “Any persistent fever, severe body pain, breathing difficulties, vomiting, diarrhoea or unusual fatigue should not be ignored. Early diagnosis and timely medical intervention can significantly reduce complications and improve recovery out comes,” Dr Anantha said. 

He emphasised that prevention begins with simple measures such as maintaining good hand hygiene, consuming safe food and clean drinking water, avoiding exposure to stagnant water, preventing mosquito breeding around homes, and taking adequate precautions against mosquito bites.

Medical experts also advise residents to take precautions while travelling outdoors by carrying essential monsoon gear such as raincoats, umbrellas, boots or closed footwear, and warm clothing to protect themselves from cold and damp conditions. Parents are urged to pay special attention to their children's health during this period, as youngsters are more susceptible to contagious illnesses and may inadvertently spread infections among classmates and teachers, potentially affecting larger school communities.