Stay safe this monsoon

Unpredictable Weather

The fluctuating weather and drop in the temperature have brought a spate of ailments to the City, ranging from cold and cough to typhoid, malaria, dengue, stomach infections, diseases related to the gastrointestinal tract and some skin infections.

Bangaloreans say that they are cautious about where they eat and what they eat as they don’t want to be down with a fever or a stomach infection.

Doctors advise the same, stressing on the fact that contaminated water and food are the root causes for diseases like typhoid and infections of the gastrointestinal tract. Dr R Manjunath, consultant physician at Manipal Hospital, says that diseases like typhoid, jaundice, dengue, malaria and other stomach infections are doing the rounds and many are also falling prey to skin infections.

“We have got several cases of dengue this month. In fact, many people in the City are down with four common diseases — dengue, malaria, typhoid and jaundice. Many underground car parks have become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. It is important that people clear stagnant water after a fresh spell of rain.

Jaundice and typhoid are food and water-borne diseases and it is best to avoid street food like pani puri and chaat. We have also seen cases of leptospirosis, caused by water that has been contaminated by rats or even animal carcasses. Gastrointestinal diseases like amebiasis and dysentery are also very common now,” he says.

Bangaloreans admit that the fluctuating weather has made them wary of trying food at small roadside joints. While some prefer to stick to homemade food, others make it a point to only eat hot dishes. “I am avoiding eating at small joints and roadside shops as it is quite common to end up with a stomach infection during this season. I prefer to take dabbas as they are healthy and safer than eating outside. Almost everyone I know has been down with fever or stomach infections and that has made me very cautious,” says Niroop, a student.

Others say that they don’t let water collect around their homes after a spell of rain, to cut down on mosquito breeding. Many can also be spotted wearing warm clothes to avoid catching a cold. “The weather in Bangalore has become extremely unpredictable. An umbrella is a must when one is outdoors. Motorists should carry a jacket or a raincoat. I try and avoid eating outside as stomach infections are common in this weather. The safest way to enjoy the monsoon is to drink some homemade soup or tea and avoid the rains,” says Sunil, a professional.

Some point out that keeping away from mosquitoes is imperative this season to avoid diseases like dengue or malaria. Another factor which should not be overlooked is increasing one’s immunity. Eating fruits and vegetables which have high vitamin and mineral content is beneficial.