Monsoon finally arrives after heaps of perspiring and obstacles of searing summer. However, this monsoon will not be the same as it used to be. Since the emergence of COVID 19, it has been an ongoing debate on how this virus will react to the changing weather conditions. Humid weather, reduced temperatures, and rains predispose to many respiratory viral infections and COVID 19 being a respiratory disease can show a surge in this weather or change of season. While scientists continue to investigate the COVID-19 disease progression during the monsoon months, it is extremely essential to continue all social distancing and hygiene practices and the advisories issued for our well-being and safety.
The experts from Ziqitza Healthcare Ltd have suggested few tips which you should follow to stay safe and healthy in the monsoon.
- Always have rain gear with you
Your mom probably always used to remind you to carry around complete rain equipment or at least an umbrella. And even though you are now an adult, it doesn’t cancel the fact that your mom is always right. Getting wet from a sudden downpour is proven to create a change in your body temperature which will likely lead to colds and fever. In today’s day and age, the motto “come prepared”, no matter the situation, is always a good idea.
- Wash your hands religiously
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that being hygienic and dutifully washing your hands are huge factors in remaining healthy. These will prevent you from becoming sick because of viruses and bacteria which are more rampant during the season. So wherever you will go to or whatever it is you will do, washing your hands should become a habit. A friendly reminder though, proper handwashing must be done with warm water and soap to effectively get rid of the said viruses.
- Mind what you eat
The immune system is more susceptible to illnesses during this time should prompt you to be more mindful of what you put into your body. Ziqitza Limited urges you to load up on fresh fruits and vegetables to give yourself a fighting chance against sickness. Also steer clear of any unsanitary street food as they can become contaminated with airborne diseases which can cause you a stomachache, or even worse, diarrhea.
- Stay hydrated
One simple, very doable trick to staying at the top of your health game despite the rainy weather is to drink more water than you normally do. Not only will this help boost your immune system, but it can also elevate your energy levels and lessen fatigue. Since waterborne diseases are also widespread during this particular time, make sure you only drink purified or boiled water, and avoid consuming any water from unsure sources.
- Keep your surroundings clean and tidy
Dr Datar- Ziqitza Healthcare says the mosquitos breed more during the rainy season because they favor stagnant pools to lay their eggs and for the development of their larvae. Mosquitos transmit malaria and this disease can be fatal to adults and children if not urgently attended to. Have a mosquito net with mosquito repellants, mosquito coils, insect sprays, and repellent herbs. Close all windows and doors before dark and wear trousers and long-sleeved clothes if you have to be out after dark. Other precautionary measures include fitting windows with mosquito screens, clearing gutters, and draining any water accumulating garden tools and children’s toys. Drain water from birdbaths, unfiltered pools as this eliminates breeding grounds for mosquitos.
ZHL Rajasthan and Ziqitza Rajasthan advise to drink clean and boiled water, have home-cooked food, and drinking enough healthy liquids. Avoid having unhygienic food from outside, especially roadside junk food. Moreover, maintaining proper hygiene is the only way to prevent such diseases. It is very tempting to go out and enjoy the weather but keeping the current situation in mind and the health risks associated, it is strongly advised to avoid all leisure and non-essential travel. Remember the key to good health is in our hands and it is important that we stay safe in this monsoon season.