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Dengue and chikungunya generally increase during the monsoon season in almost every city.
Warm temperature, high humidity, and stagnant water create the perfect conditions for mosquitoes to breed, making it especially troubling in crowded cities
This year, Bengaluru experienced a significantly hotter summer than usual, but the start of the monsoon season has brought relief to the city’s residents. However, that relief has its downside, as with the onset of monsoon, mosquito-borne diseases also increase. Recent surveillance data shows that dengue and chikungunya infections have seen a sharp increase in the city.
Warm temperature, high humidity, and stagnant water create the perfect conditions for mosquitoes to breed, making it especially troubling in crowded cities. Pregnant women and children are at more risk of these infections due to their weakened immunity, physiological strain and other changes that make them more susceptible to infections.
Dr. Sunil Kumar Gonuguntala, MBBS, MD, Pediatrics & Neonatology, Bengaluru-Brookefield, and Dr Aparna Jha, MBBS, MS, DNB (OB GYN), MRCOG Obstetrics & Gynecology, Bengaluru-Brookefield share all you need to know:
Why Are Children and Pregnant Women More at Risk?
Children spend most of their time outdoors, which makes it easier for mosquitoes to bite them. Pregnant women also naturally go through many physical and hormonal changes, thus weakening their immune systems, which increases their risk of infections and other complications. People should treat these illnesses early because such diseases can cause fever, pain in joints, rashes, weakness, and in worse situations, can result in dehydration or a reduction in the platelet count.
Precautionary steps to take this monsoon
Boost Immunity
Aid the immune system by consuming seasonal fruits and vegetables like guavas, papayas, spinach, bottle gourd, oranges, etc, that are full of antioxidants and other vitamins. Consuming warm soups and herbal teas with tulsi or ginger can also help in increasing overall immunity.
Prevent Mosquito Bites
Keep the environment dry and clean around you. Prevent water collection in pots and corners. Use nets, apply natural repellents, and wear full-sleeved garments.
Maintain Hygiene
Use clean towels, wear dry clothes, drink only boiled or filtered water, and avoid street food or unhygienic food.
Rest and Recovery
It is important to prioritize sleep and do gentle physical activities, like light yoga, to help your physical health. Relaxation practices such as breathwork or meditative practices can help improve your emotional health and well-being.
Dengue and chikungunya generally increase during the monsoon season in almost every city. But by preparing ahead of time, using simple hygiene practices, eating seasonal and home-cooked food, and taking precautions against mosquito bites, the monsoon can become a pleasant experience.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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