Severe weather conditions during monsoons are no stranger to us. Storms, flashfloods, and water puddles everywhere. And how can we forget the increased chances of falling sick. Rain brings with itself infections like dengue, malaria, conjunctivitis etc. and contaminates the drinking water resulting in cholera, jaundice, viral flu and other digestive and common allergies. While torrential rains are expected to continue throughout the monsoon period, here are some ways to protect yourselves from their impact and stay safe.
1. First and foremost, whenever you’re outside and you see thunder, lightning and feel that it is going to pour down heavily, seek a shelter as early as possible to prevent yourself from getting soaked.
2. Since monsoon is the season for allergies, infections and diseases, you might want to rise up your immunity by loading up on vitamins especially vitamin C, drinking fresh fruit juices made at home without ice, and since with monsoon like climate you do not tend to feel thirst, make sure to keep yourself clean and hydrated. Having showers regularly and washing hands often may prevent throat infections and common cold.
Source: kokilabenhospital.com
3. As tempting as it might be play in the right water, stepping into these stagnant waters and muddy patches with open toes can be more dangerous than you think. While simple washing might sometimes be adequate, there is an increased risk of occurrence of Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection more common in dogs. So before you step out, make sure you’re wearing a shoes rather than a sandal.
Source: stylecracker.com
4. Another important point to remember is to keep yourself as dry as possible during this season. Since the outside weather conditions are always damp, your skin especially your hand and feet are damp and may be prone to fungal infections. Using an antibacterial soap to wash your hands occasionally and using talcum powders at areas of the body more prone to be damp would help.
Source: telegram.ee
5. If you happen to get wet in the rain, make sure to come out of your damp clothes as early as possible. And never ever wear damp clothes in an air-conditioned enclosed area to prevent the risk of acquiring chest colds and respiratory infections.
6. Admitted, all those street food fares at the roadsides are too difficult to resist. But you might want to restrain the temptation to have those Pani Puris and other chats during the monsoon. Contaminated water and flies from stagnant water is a serious problem during the monsoon and these street foods are even unhealthier during monsoon considering the unhygienic conditions they are prepared and sold in.
Source: fawesome.ifood.tv
7. Do not ignore common cold or any other symptoms, especially during rains. A persistent fever or other infection must always be immediately reported to a doctor because letting it be makes the bacteria mutate, making any medication ineffective.
Source: rocketlawyer.com
8. Monsoon is very bad for the skin. Do not add to it by eating deep fried or oily food, which causes the body heat to increase.
Feature Image Source: hdwallpaperss.in
This was first published in August 2015
