The monsoon season brings much-needed relief from the scorching summer heat, but it also brings along a host of disease-causing microbes. Unfortunately, our gut health becomes more vulnerable during this time. While not all monsoon-related gastric diseases are serious if treated promptly, their severity can increase if precautions are not taken in a timely manner.
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Microbes such as E. coli, salmonella enterica, and rotavirus are the primary causes of waterborne zoonotic diseases. Livestock, poultry, and fish can be affected and act as hosts and carriers of these diseases. We have observed a sudden rise in the number of patients visiting our outpatient departments with stomach infections like diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and food poisoning. The flooding caused by rain contaminates water lines, increasing the risk of toxins leaching into the water we use. Additionally, food prepared outside the home is more prone to unhygienic practices.
Common Stomach Infections during Monsoon:
Dysentery and Diarrhea: Amoebic dysentery or bacterial-induced diarrhea can result in stomach pain, loose motions, and nausea. Proper medication and an adequate intake of electrolyte-rich water can help replenish lost fluids and maintain energy levels. Consuming home-cooked, easily digestible food will aid in faster recovery.
Gastroenteritis: It is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines. While it is usually not severe in healthy individuals, it can lead to severe symptoms. Consult a doctor in case of high fever, blood in stools, signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, decreased urine output, severe weakness, and lightheadedness.
Typhoid: Typhoid is a serious bacterial infection that can be life-threatening if left untreated. Common symptoms include high fever, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. It is crucial to consult a doctor for proper medication to treat this infection.
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Hepatitis A and Jaundice: Hepatitis A is caused by a virus that inflames the liver. This vaccine-preventable disease is commonly spread through poor sanitation, unhygienic eating habits, and contaminated water and food. It can lead to liver dysfunction, characterized by yellowing of the eyes, yellow urine, white stools, and stomach pain. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention for diagnosis and treatment options.
Healthy Eating Habits during Monsoon:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly before eating or touching your mouth and face.
2. Avoid consuming outside food. When dining out, it's advisable to avoid raw items like salads, chutneys, and curd. For instance, if you're having a dosa, try to avoid the chutney. The same applies to cold salads. Whenever possible, opt for freshly cooked food. Avoid street food, fast food, and improperly stored or undercooked food.
3. Keep typhoid and rotavirus at bay by ensuring complete age-appropriate vaccinations and maintaining strict water quality measures. Use potable/sterile water for drinking and cooking. Boil water for 10 minutes or use UV/RO purifiers. Avoid contact with stagnant/muddy/dirty open water." It's essential to be cautious about the water you consume as most gut infections and hepatitis are caused by contaminated water. Drink filtered or boiled water. 99% of infections during the monsoon are water and food-borne.
4. Maintain cleanliness in your surroundings. If you fall ill, consume plenty of fluids, electrolytes, probiotics, and get enough rest.
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Restaurant Safety Measures to Keep in Mind:
During the rainy season, there is an increased risk of contamination of ingredients. Flooded areas can lead to water sources getting contaminated, affecting the quality of produce. Restaurants may unknowingly use ingredients exposed to contaminated water, posing a risk of foodborne illnesses.
There is a higher risk of spoilage of perishable items. The high humidity levels and temperature fluctuations create favorable conditions for the growth of bacteria and mold. Perishable items such as dairy products, meats, and vegetables are more prone to spoilage if not handled and stored properly by restaurants. Consuming spoiled food can lead to food poisoning. The rain attracts pests like flies, mosquitoes, and rodents. Inadequate pest control in restaurants can lead to contamination of food and food preparation areas, posing health risks to consumers. Refrigeration and proper storage conditions are essential for maintaining the freshness and safety of food.
Measures for restaurant safety:
1. Look for establishments that have proper certifications and follow food safety regulations.
2. Inquire about the sourcing of ingredients, especially during the rainy season, and whether the restaurant takes precautions to ensure the freshness and safety of the produce they use.
3. Opt for well-cooked food, as high temperatures in cooking help kill bacteria and pathogens that may be present. Avoid undercooked or raw food items, particularly meat and seafood.
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4. Avoid consuming street food during this time.
5. Prevention of monsoon diseases is not difficult, but it is crucial, especially for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children, infants, and the elderly, who are more susceptible to infectious diseases and need to exercise extra caution.
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