BREAKING
No need to panic over SIR notices: U’khand CEOFormer TMC MLA Sanat Dey arrested over extortion, land grabbing chargesFood Safety officials raid five-star hotels in cityX replaces Creator Revenue Sharing with new Original Content Rewards programIAF officer arrested over defence information leak, probe on‘Creamy layer’ not applicable to SC/ST quota, govt tells Supreme CourtDavid Fincher’s American Squid Game spinoff shelved by Netflix; director turns to Brad Pitt filmDelhi records wettest first week of August in 15 years as heavy rain brings city to standstillNEETGATE: 3 NTA subject experts leaked the papersFighting monsoon diseases: Doctor’s tips to stay safe
Health

Fighting monsoon diseases: Doctor’s tips to stay safe

hellohimachalse@gmail.com 08 Aug 2026 1 hour ago

During monsoon season, preventative measures against common diseases like rat fever, dengue, vomiting, diarrhoea, and skin infections are crucial due to increased risks from heavy rain and waterlogging.

This monsoon season has been quite a challenge for Malayalis with heavy rain and waterlogging at various places across the state. It is also the time when hospitals get overwhelmed with patients complaining of various diseases. Alongside taking appropriate measures to stay safe, taking effective preventive measures against rat fever, dengue, vomiting, diarrhoea and skin diseases are also extremely important. Dr B Padmakumar, former Head of General Medicine at the Government TD Medical College, Alappuzha, explains how to handle them. The recommendations given here are for informational purposes only, and before implementing any health-related decisions, consult your personal doctor. 

Rat fever
Rat fever can become severe in people residing in areas like Kuttanad, where farming is prominent. The bacteria enter the body through small scratches or wounds on the legs. The best way to prevent the disease is to take doxycycline tablets that are supplied through the health centres and also at the relief camps. You could take a 200 mg tablet once a week until the floodwaters subside. However, children below 12 years, pregnant women and lactating mothers should take an azithromycin tablet (200 mg for children and 500 mg for adults). 

Skin diseases
Bacteria and viruses could enter the body through the ringworm lesions. After washing and drying the legs at night, apply antifungal ointments. 
Mosquito-borne diseases
Avoiding mosquito bites is the easiest method of prevention. Those who have already had dengue should take extra care during the monsoon. 

Vomiting, diarrhoea
Make sure to drink boiled and cooled water. Those who are regularly taking medicines for diseases like diabetes should ensure that they have enough supply of the medicine. If you are unable to store insulin in the fridge, then keep it in an earthen pot filled with water. 
Note: The information given here is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor before following any of the advice mentioned.

Related News