Every season has its pros and cons and brings with it some fun and some woes. However, if we choose to take precautions and follow some safety tips, we can make the best out of every season. After a scorching summer that saw heat waves play havoc in a few parts of India, we are now eagerly looking forward to the monsoon. The monsoon is a season loved by most people, as the rains bring joy. It is always associated with romance, poetry, nature, garam chai, pakode, and of course weddings too!
However, the monsoon may give us some troubles that we don’t look forward to. Floods and cloudbursts are common in some parts of the country and waterlogging in cities is another problem. Power disruptions, undried clothes, a general lethargy, craving for unhealthy foods, and of course a few monsoon diseases are all part of this season. Senior citizens already suffering from health issues may be more prone to issues during this time. Let’s see how we can take better care of ourselves and avoid some monsoon issues and enjoy it fully.
- Drink warm, clean water
Water-borne diseases abound in monsoon as there are always chances of the drinking water getting contaminated. Hence, it is always better to carry filtered drinking water from home with you, if you are stepping out. Also, since the season can be cold, it is preferable to drink warm water rather than cold. This will help keep diseases like cholera and typhoid away. Avoid outside food, especially street food as we never know which water they use.
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- Stay protected
It is typical of people to step out when the rains stop and the sun peeks out thinking it won’t rain immediately again. And then, people get caught. It is always better to be prepared when you step out during monsoons. Carry an umbrella or a raincoat, avoid two-wheeler rides, and preferably step out only f required and use cars and cabs to stay safe. Take extreme care if you are walking during monsoons to avoid puddles and potholes that are not visible. Be careful to avoid falls by watching where you are stepping to ensure it is firm ground and take it easy.
Additionally, chances of many illnesses such as flu or influenza, respiratory disorders, cough, flu, viral infections, conjunctivitis, and digestive problems are common during monsoons. You could discuss with your doctor about taking influenza shots to stay protected. Eat home-cooked, warm, and immunity-boosting nutritious foods and take medicines regularly to avoid infections. Try some natural supplements like ginger tea, turmeric, and black pepper tea, and include garlic and fresh, seasonal fruits and veggies. Also, using herbs like Tulsi, and snacks like corn (bhutta) are good diet choices for this season.
- Follow good hygiene habits
Maintaining good hygiene habits is essential in all seasons. However, it is more so during monsoons. Take daily warm water baths, keep washing your hands and also ensure that the house is maintained clean. Any damp surface or water-logging can easily attract disease-causing germs and insects. Keep doors and windows closed during the early morning and evening hours. Use netted doors and mosquito repellents to ward away mosquitoes. During this time mosquito-induced dengue and malaria are common.
- Be prepared
If you plan and prepare, then the monsoons need not be troublesome in any way. For example, prepare for power cuts with charged emergency lamps, and a few candles. Purchase mosquito nets and repellents as needed. Ensure grocery is stocked and step out less. Have some over-the-counter medicines handy for regular monsoon issues like cough and cold. Also, get your plumbing and geysers checked before the monsoon starts. There could be some clogged drains or leaking pipes that could cause unwanted troubles in the monsoon.
- Stay connected and seek help
Last, but not least, it is important to stay connected, even if we do not step out. By now, we are used to this because of the pandemic. Hence, continue to be in touch with family and friends through virtual means. Watch out for any signs and symptoms of infections and seek medical help without delay. Timely diagnosis and treatment can easily help overcome most monsoon illnesses without any major trouble or hospitalisation.
