Coronavirus is a never seen before pandemic that has left the world terrified. One cannot do anything but take precautions to safeguard their health. Now after the second wave of coronavirus even one sneeze, cough or even the slightest temperature seems like a COVID alarm. While it is good to be cautious about these symptoms, don’t forget this monsoon season can also be responsible for the changes in your body. Monsoons are generally associated with infections and diseases, mainly because of the change in weather, drop in humidity, waterlogging, mosquito breeding, etc.When a person infected with monsoon diseases coughs, sneezes, or even talks, they unknowingly spray tiny droplets, which are bacteria and viruses’ carriers.
Ziqitza Healthcare Ltd says some of the common monsoon-related ailments are Dengue, Malaria, Viral fever, Chikungunya. While COVID-19 is a viral infection associated with coronavirus, whose relation and impacts in monsoon are yet not known. Here we will discuss some common symptoms of these infections.
Dengue:
Dengue is a common monsoon fever, that lasts for up to seven days. Characterized with a drop and then a small revival towards the end. Symptoms include headache, swollen and painful joints, followed by a rash. After the fever, one may experience swelling on finger and toe joints while some patients report a rash over their arms, torsos, and legs.
Chikungunya:
Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by tiger AedesAlbopictus mosquito causing severe joint pain and fever, other symptoms include headache, nausea, muscle pain, rash, and fatigue. There is no cure for Chikungunya and those infected rely on treatment to relieve their symptoms.
Malaria:
Monsoon season brings water logging problems facilitating conducive conditions for mosquito breeding. Malaria is one of the common diseases caused by female mosquitoes. Fever, chills, body aches are the most common symptoms. Of all, Cerebral malaria is considered the most dangerous form causing most of the Malaria deaths. If untreated, Malaria can lead to severe complications like severe anaemia, jaundice, liver, and kidney failure. Antimalarial medications are prescribed as a malaria treatment.
Viral Fever:
Viral fever is a common monsoon disease, caused by sudden weather changes. Symptoms include fever, body aches, and chills. Seasonal Viral fever is contagious spreading through infected droplets in the air or proximity with infected secretions. Viral fever lasts for 3 to 7 days. Severe fever is observed in the first three days of infection0000. Monsoon viral fever is usually self-limiting and does not require antibiotics unless there is a secondary infection.
Common Cold and Flu:
Common cold and flu are very frequent during the monsoon months. The sudden change in weather causes temperature fluctuations which lead to cold and flu. The common cold is a highly contagious disease, due to the rapid virus transmission infecting the upper respiratory tract.Symptoms of cold and flu involve the runny or stuffy nose, throat irritation, and soreness, and fever. Strong immunity is the best resistance to prevent the common cold.A healthy, balanced, and nutritious diet adds to body resistance, lessening the chances of the infection.
Dr. Datar from Ziqitza Healthcare (ZHL) says you can still enjoy the season if you are just a bit cautious:
- Try to keep your home and surroundings mosquito-free.
- Use mosquito repellent and wear full-sleeved clothes while stepping out.
- Avoid visiting crowded places to reduce your risk of viral infections.
- Drink boiled water.
- Consume fresh homemade food.
- Make sure your home is well ventilated.
- Wash hands before eating any food.
- Avoid touching your nose and mouth with your hand without washing them.
Ziqitza Rajasthan has observed there has been written a lot on the precautionary measures to avoid COVID-19, but understanding the difference between coronavirus, common cold and flu is crucial to spread positive vibes among the masses as they can panic as some symptoms of coronavirus, common cold and flu are same. ZHL Rajasthan shares a table to make it simpler for you.
| Symptoms | Coronavirus | Common Cold | Flu |
| Fever | Common | Rare | Common |
| Dry Cough | Common | Mild | Common |
| Breathlessness | Common | No | No |
| Headaches | Sometimes | Rare | Common |
| Aches & Pains | Sometimes | Common | Common |
| Sore Throat | Sometimes | Common | Common |
| Fatigue | Sometimes | Sometimes | Common |
| Diarrhoea | Rare | No | Sometimes |
| Runny Nose | Rare | Common | Sometimes |
| Sneezing | No | Common | No |
The season is changing right now and one might catch fever or cold. But do not panic. Monsoon diseases are highly infectious. Follow this guide to differentiate between coronavirus, cold and flu and stay calm. To prevent the risk of transmission Ziqitza urges you to consult doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms, don’t delay your diagnosis. You can also call at the government health helplines like 104 Health Helpline to consult and to stay safe and healthy.