Although a welcome respite from the heat, the monsoon season tends to evoke mixed feelings. While on the one hand we have road trips, hot delicious snacks, home-bound cozy afternoons and other gratifying seasonal experiences to look forward to, there are also issues like water logging, traffic delays and seasonal health concerns to contend with!
Cases of respiratory illnesses, like the seasonal flu, tend to spike during the rainy monsoon months. With other illnesses such as cold, cough, malaria and dengue common during this time of the year too – often with similar symptoms to the flu – early detection is key. Fortunately, preventive methods like immunization, advancements like rapid testing and diagnostics and comprehensive treatment all go a long way in keeping you sheltered from the effects of monsoon-related maladies.
The rainy season & the onset of the flu
Much like we wait for the cool seasonal showers, the flu too seems to like the rains and humidity! The weather and water conditions at this time of the year are often breeding grounds for a number of viral and bacterial infections. A common monsoon visitor, seasonal flu caused by the influenza virus, affects the lungs, nose and throat. Unlike the common cold, the flu can cause severe health complications and take more of a toll on your health. Primarily air-borne through droplets, the flu is also easily transmitted via contaminated surfaces and from person to person contact. With schools generally reopening during this time of the year and more indoor activities for kids and adults alike, precautionary measures and awareness about the symptoms of this contagious disease are crucial.
The symptoms of seasonal flu
Seasonal influenza usually entails a sudden onset of symptoms unlike those of a cold. With effects ranging from mild to severe, complications from the illness can sometimes also lead to hospitalization in high-risk patients. People aged 65 and older, children younger than 5 years of age, pregnant women, those with chronic conditions like heart disease, liver disease or asthma etc. are considered to be more susceptible to developing complications from the flu.
General symptoms of seasonal flu include, but aren’t limited to:
- Cough or sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Fever
- Chills
- Joint or muscle ache
- Headache
- Uneasiness or malaise
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
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