National Times Bureau, August 27, 2025: The monsoon brings relief from the summer heat, but it also creates the perfect environment for seasonal illnesses such as flu, dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. This makes it important to strengthen immunity, practice hygiene, and remain alert to early symptoms.
Seasonal changes, especially heavy rains and fluctuating temperatures, can weaken the body’s natural defences. Children and the elderly are most vulnerable because their immunity is either still developing or has begun to decline with age. Extra care, preventive measures, and timely vaccination are essential during this season.
To reduce the risk of infection, experts highlight some key measures. Frequent hand washing and mask use in crowded places help lower exposure. Freshly cooked food is safest, while seafood, cut fruits, chutneys, and uncovered meals should be avoided, as they spoil quickly in humid weather. Safe drinking water, whether boiled, filtered, or packaged, prevents water-borne infections. Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and amla naturally strengthen immunity. Preventing stagnant water around homes is vital, since it serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes that spread dengue and malaria.
Common flu symptoms seen this season include high fever, sore throat, body pain, fatigue, headache, chills, runny nose, and cough. Cases of Influenza A, Influenza B, and coronavirus have been reported, all causing flu-like symptoms.
Flu differs from other monsoon illnesses. Dengue begins with high fever, severe headache, and joint pain, later leading to a fall in platelet count. Chikungunya causes fever with severe joint pain, especially in smaller joints of the hands and elbows. Malaria is marked by recurring cycles of fever, chills, and sweating. If fever persists beyond three to four days, doctors recommend a CBC (Complete Blood Count) test to check platelet levels and rule out serious infections.
Annual flu vaccination is strongly advised for children and the elderly as a safe and effective preventive step. The monsoon season demands vigilance, hygiene, safe food and water, mosquito control, and immunity-boosting habits. Early detection and timely medical care remain the most effective ways to stay healthy during this period.
