Porni Banerjee | ০৩ জুলাই ২০২৪ ১১ : ৫৪

Porni Banerjee

Monsoon is here in India. And who doesn’t love to get drenched in the first round of fresh rains? With vibrant greenery, chirping birds, cool and pleasant weather – the environment turns just ‘perfect’ to sit back and unwind yourself over hot and crispy fritters, pakoras and garma-garam chai.

While monsoon bring huge relief from blistering heat, it also causes a wide range of seasonal infections, including cold, cough, viral fever and bacterial infections as well. But there are ways to keep immunity strong and protect oneself from such infections.

With the arrival of monsoons in India, there has been a spurt in viral infection and gastrointestinal diseases over the past few days across Kolkata, triggering a concern among city"s healthcare professionals.

“Of 20 patients, at least 7-8 of them with ear and throat problems are visiting my chamber daily. This sudden spike is due to seasonal change. During monsoons, cold can also accumulate in the ears that often causes ear pain in many,” said Dr Diptanshu Mukherjee, associate professor of the ENT department at Kolkata Medical College.

The doctor added that “those prone to developing seasonal allergic tendencies or sinusitis are more likely to catch cold during the rainy season. Sinusitis is followed by pharyngitis that causes pain or irritation in the throat and gives rise to viral and bacterial infections, especially among toddlers, elderly people, pregnant women, smokers, diabetics and those with gastric disorders and compromised immunity. Such infection can persist for nearly a week. However, this concern can be addressed with proper medication in severe cases.”

Monsoon’s high humidity can create favourable conditions for fungal and bacterial infections on human skin as well.

“Some skin infections that are common especially during humid weather conditions include Miliarial dermatitis from excess sweat, also known as prickly heat or rash heat and summer boils caused by staphylococcal bacteria. Again, fungal infections such as pityriasis versicolor that causes skin rash, tinea cruris (contagious skin infection in the genitals, inner thighs and buttocks) tinea pedis (Athlete’s foot) can also bring in skin infection menace. Body acne is also a troublesome skin condition especially among young boys during humid weather events,” said Abhishek De, professor at the Department of Dermatology of Calcutta National Medical College.

“It is mandatory that people wear clean and dry clothes, preferably breathable fabrics and maintain hygiene by taking regular showers to avoid accumulation of bacteria and fungus from sweat,” the doctor further said, adding that keeping skin and shoes dry, drinking plenty of water and eating fresh fruits and vegetables can also maintain improved skin health. Medical advice is necessary if infections aggravate.

The thriving condition for all kinds of germs during the rainy season also has adverse impacts on people’s respiratory health. A study by the Indian Council of Medical Research revealed that the number of people suffering from respiratory ailments in India rise by 20 percent in the rainy season.

“Monsoon is the most suitable time for the rise in respiratory illnesses. Nearly 5-6 patients are queuing up at my clinic daily with complaints of sore throat, common cold, viral fever, body aches, excess cough, loss of appetite, diarrhea and extreme fatigue. Such tendencies are more common in elderly because of their weak immunity,” said Soumya Bhattacharya, pulmonologist at RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata.    

By following some basic precautions in advance, communities can prepare for inclement weather conditions during monsoons and protect themselves from the negative impacts they have on human health.

“Eating home-cooked fresh meals, frequent hydration and enough rest can reduce the chances of catching seasonal infections, Bhattacharya added.

Discussing about the onset of influenza, the pulmonologist noted that “this season can also up the risk of influenza cases, especially among senior people and those with comorbidities, high sugar, hypertension, kidney problems and several cardiovascular diseases. Influenza vaccines work well to alleviate severity. If required, one must consult a specialist.”

As monsoon blues may invite persistent cough and cold in allergy sufferers, the age-old remedy – the sweet humble honey – can fend off symptoms of common cold. Although not a cure, consumption of honey throughout the year can improve tolerance to seasonal irritants.

“Black Seed honey, jamun honey, Jammu multiflora and UP multiflora (honey sourced from Jammu and Uttar Pradesh respectively) have high efficacy level in treating fever, cough and sore throat. One tablespoon of these honeys before or during breakfast and before bedtime but at least two hours after dinner can serve the purpose,” highlighted Bengal-based honey researcher Swarnendu Sarkar.