Top News

Monsoon health myths: We all certainly enjoy the rainy season. But it also brings with it a host of illnesses. Waterborne and foodborne diseases like diarrhea, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A and E are prevalent during the rainy season. People often believe various myths during this season, making their problems even worse.  

Therefore, it’s important to understand the truth before believing anything. So, in this article, we’ll be sharing some such myths to rain that could prove dangerous for you: 

Myth 1- Clear looking water is safe to drink.

Truth: The risk of waterborne diseases increases significantly during the rainy season. Therefore, it is extremely important to be cautious. People often assume that if the water appears clean and transparent, it is safe to drink. However, this is not entirely true. Bacteria, viruses, and parasites present in water are invisible to the naked eye. Therefore, drinking such water increases the risk of serious diseases like diarrhea, typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis. 

What to do?

• Always drink boiled or filtered water.
• Carry your water bottle with you when you go out.
• Do not drink water kept in the open.

Myth 2- Infection can occur only by eating street food.  

Truth: Eating out during the rainy season is definitely worth avoiding, as it significantly increases the risk of infection. However, street food isn’t the only culprit. Even at home, poor hygiene during cooking, using contaminated water, or leaving cooked food out for extended periods can increase the risk of infection.

What to do?

• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before using them.
• Always keep food covered and avoid eating stale food.
• Use separate chopping boards and knives for raw and cooked food.

Myth 3: Stomach infections will resolve on their own.

Truth: Stomach infections are very common during the rainy season. However, many people, when they experience diarrhea or vomiting, assume they’ll be fine in a day or two, and there’s no need to see a doctor. Mild infections can be cured, but persistent diarrhea, vomiting, fever, or dehydration should not be ignored. Without timely treatment, the problem can become quite serious. 

What to do?

• Do not be careless if you have persistent diarrhea or vomiting.
• Keep taking ORS and adequate water.
• Especially, these symptoms should not be ignored in small children, pregnant women and the elderly.

What things are important to take care of during the rainy season? 

If you want to stay healthy during the rainy season, it’s important to take care of a few things.

• Wash hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet.
• Do not keep cut fruits and vegetables open for a long time.
• Do not drink ice or open beverages. 
• Do not allow water to accumulate around the house.
• Clean the kitchen and water containers regularly.