The monsoon may bring cool showers and festive joy, but health experts warn that this season demands extra caution. With Ganesh Chaturthi Durga Puja and other celebrations attracting large crowds, doctors have reported a significant increase in viral fevers and seasonal infections during the rainy months.
According to Dr C.C. Nair, Physician/Internal Medicine at Lilavati Hospital Mumbai, infections such as influenza respiratory syncytial virus RSV adenovirus and viral gastroenteritis tend to spike during this time. The combination of wet weather poor ventilation and community gatherings creates the perfect environment for viruses to spread.
“Festive crowds often involve handshakes hugging sharing food and lack of rest—all of which weaken immunity and promote viral transmission,” says Dr Nair.
Why children and elderly are at higher risk
Children with developing immune systems and elderly individuals with underlying conditions like diabetes hypertension or respiratory illnesses are more vulnerable. To protect them:
- Ensure timely flu vaccinations and basic immunizations.
- Limit time in crowded places encourage mask usage and regular handwashing.
- Serve a balanced diet rich in fruits proteins and fluids.
- Avoid sharing bottles napkins or snacks.
- Watch for warning signs like fever lasting more than two days breathlessness vomiting or chest pain and seek medical help immediately.
Food and hygiene precautions during festivals
Doctors strongly advise against eating cut fruits raw salads or street food during monsoon. Home-cooked freshly prepared meals are safer. Non-vegetarian food like meat poultry and fish should always be thoroughly cooked.
Hygiene is critical—washing hands before meals covering nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and avoiding public events when sick reduces infection risk. Carrying sanitizers to pandals markets or gatherings also minimizes exposure.
Immunity-boosting lifestyle habits
A healthy diet with seasonal fruits vegetables probiotics like curd and immunity-rich foods containing Vitamin C Vitamin D and zinc improves natural resistance. Adequate hydration regular exercise and proper sleep further strengthen the immune system.
Avoid misuse of antibiotics
Dr Nair stresses that antibiotics are not effective against viral fevers and can be harmful if misused. Supportive treatment such as fluids rest and prescribed medicines under medical guidance remains the safest approach.
By following these doctor-recommended monsoon tips—hygiene immunity and food safety—you can protect yourself and your family from seasonal viral infections while enjoying the festive season responsibly.