Rainy Season Illnesses and Their Prevention
Discover common rainy season illnesses, their causes, and symptoms. Learn effective prevention tips to stay healthy and safe during the monsoon.
Written by Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 13th Aug, 2025
The rainy season brings relief from the scorching summer heat, but it also increases the risk of various illnesses. The damp and humid weather creates a perfect breeding ground for germs, mosquitoes, and waterborne diseases. Understanding these illnesses and taking preventive measures can help you stay healthy and enjoy the monsoon safely.
Common Rainy Season Illnesses
Below are a few common rainy season illnesses,
1. Dengue
Dengue is a viral infection spread by the Aedes mosquito, which breeds in stagnant water. Symptoms include:
High fever
Severe headache
Pain behind the eyes
Muscle and joint pain
Skin rash
Prevention Tips:
Remove stagnant water from coolers, pots, and containers.
Use mosquito repellents and nets.
Wear full-sleeved clothes to avoid mosquito bites.
2. Malaria
Malaria is another mosquito-borne disease caused by the Anopheles mosquito. Symptoms include:
Fever with chills
Fatigue
Sweating
Nausea and vomiting
Prevention Tips:
Use mosquito nets and repellents.
Keep surroundings clean and dry.
Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
3. Chikungunya
Chikungunya is transmitted by the same mosquitoes as dengue. Symptoms include:
High fever
Severe joint pain
Muscle pain
Fatigue
Prevention Tips:
Avoid mosquito bites by using repellents.
Keep windows and doors screened.
Wear protective clothing.
4. Leptospirosis
This bacterial infection spreads through water contaminated with animal urine. Symptoms include:
High fever
Muscle pain
Headache
Jaundice (yellowing of skin)
Prevention Tips:
Avoid walking in floodwater.
Wear waterproof footwear.
Maintain hygiene and wash hands frequently.
5. Typhoid
Typhoid is a waterborne disease caused by contaminated food or water. Symptoms include:
Prolonged fever
Weakness
Stomach pain
Loss of appetite
Prevention Tips:
Drink boiled or purified water.
Avoid street food.
Maintain proper hygiene.
6. Viral Fever & Common Cold
The sudden temperature changes during monsoon can lead to viral infections. Symptoms include:
Fever
Runny nose
Sore throat
Body ache
Prevention Tips:
Stay dry and warm.
Drink warm fluids like herbal tea.
Wash hands frequently.
7. Stomach Infections (Diarrhea, Cholera, Hepatitis A)
Contaminated water and food can cause stomach infections. Symptoms include:
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Dehydration
Stomach cramps
Prevention Tips:
Eat freshly cooked food.
Avoid raw salads and street food.
Drink clean, boiled water.
Consult a Top Specialist
How to Stay Healthy During the Rainy Season?
Below are the ways to stay healthy during the rainy season,
1. Maintain Personal Hygiene
Wash hands frequently with soap.
Keep nails trimmed to avoid germ buildup.
Use hand sanitizer when soap is unavailable.
2. Boost Immunity
Eat vitamin-rich foods (citrus fruits, leafy greens).
Stay hydrated with warm water and herbal teas.
Get enough sleep to strengthen immunity.
3. Avoid Stagnant Water
Empty containers that collect water.
Clean water storage tanks regularly.
Use mosquito nets and repellents.
4. Wear Appropriate Clothing
Use waterproof footwear to avoid fungal infections.
Dry wet clothes properly to prevent skin infections.
5. Eat Safe and Healthy Food
Avoid raw or uncooked food.
Consume freshly prepared meals.
Drink boiled or filtered water.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience persistent fever, severe dehydration, or worsening symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.
Book a Consultation with Apollo 24|7
If you or your loved ones experience any monsoon-related illnesses, you can book an online consultation with expert doctors on Apollo 24|7. They provide quick diagnosis and treatment from the comfort of your home.
Final Thoughts
The rainy season, while refreshing, often brings an increase in illnesses caused by water contamination, poor hygiene, and mosquito breeding. By maintaining cleanliness, using safe drinking water, wearing protective clothing, and preventing mosquito bites, you can significantly lower your risk of infection.
Consult a Top Specialist
Consult a Top Specialist
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
26 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
B Ghose Foundation Doctor's Chamber, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Chethan T L
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (General Medicine)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr Vinay Kumar A V
Nephrologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD - General Medicine, DM - Nephrology
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
Dr. Gitanjali Kochar
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
28 Years • MBBS, MRCP
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(50+ Patients)
