Five Common Diseases to Watch Out for During the Rainy Season

Common rainy-season illnesses include respiratory infections, diseases transmitted through contaminated food and water, infections entering through wounds or skin, mosquito-borne diseases, and conditions frequently found in young children.

1. Influenza

Influenza is a respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. It spreads through droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks.

Common symptoms include:

๐ Fever

๐ Cough

๐ Sore throat

๐ Runny or blocked nose

๐ Muscle aches

๐ Headache

๐ Fatigue

Getting enough rest, washing hands regularly, avoiding close contact with sick people, and receiving an annual influenza vaccination can help reduce the risk.

2. Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can spread through water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, particularly rats.

The bacteria may enter the body through cuts, wounds, or the eyes, nose, and mouth. The risk increases when walking through floodwater or contaminated mud.

Possible symptoms include:

๐ High fever

๐ Severe headache

๐ Muscle pain, particularly in the calves

๐ Red eyes

๐ Nausea or vomiting

๐ Yellowing of the skin or eyes in severe cases

Avoid walking barefoot through floodwater and cover any wounds before contact with potentially contaminated water.

3. Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is inflammation of the membrane covering the white part of the eye.

It may be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergies, or irritants. Infectious conjunctivitis can spread easily through contaminated hands, towels, and personal items.

Symptoms may include:

๐ Red eyes

๐ Eye irritation

๐ Watery eyes

๐ Sticky discharge

๐ Swollen eyelids

Avoid rubbing the eyes, wash hands frequently, and do not share towels, cosmetics, or other personal items.

4. Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus and transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes.

Common symptoms include:

๐ Sudden high fever

๐ Severe headache

๐ Pain behind the eyes

๐ Muscle and joint pain

๐ Nausea or vomiting

๐ Skin rash

๐ Unusual bleeding in severe cases

Prevent mosquito breeding by removing standing water from containers, flowerpots, gutters, and other areas around the home. Mosquito repellent and protective clothing can also reduce the risk of bites.

5. Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a contagious viral infection commonly found in infants and young children.

It spreads through saliva, respiratory secretions, fluid from blisters, and contaminated stool or surfaces.

Symptoms may include:

๐ Fever

๐ Sore throat

๐ Mouth ulcers

๐ Reduced appetite

๐ Small blisters or rashes on the hands, feet, and around the mouth

Children with symptoms should remain at home, avoid close contact with others, and receive medical assessment if they cannot drink, appear unusually drowsy, or develop severe symptoms.