Mosquito-borne diseases are highly prevalent during the monsoon season due to increased breeding activity. Below are five commonly encountered illnesses.
The monsoon season brings refreshing rains and delightful weather, yet it’s important to remember that it also ushers in mosquito-borne illnesses. With the breeding season in full swing, mosquitoes are out in full force. Failing to shield yourself leaves you vulnerable to these troublesome insects. While mosquito bites and subsequent itching may seem minor, the real concern lies in the diseases transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Each year, countless individuals suffer from various mosquito-borne illnesses. In this article, we’ve outlined five such diseases that commonly afflict individuals during the monsoon.
Malaria
Malaria stands out as the most prevalent and perilous disease stemming from mosquito bites, claiming nearly 400,000 lives annually. Nevertheless, heightened awareness has contributed to a decline in cases. When a mosquito infected with malaria parasites bites a healthy individual, transmission occurs. Symptoms such as fever, chills, and body aches are characteristic of malaria. It’s imperative to undergo testing upon noticing any unusual signs or symptoms. Additionally, employing mosquito nets and repellents during the monsoon season helps mitigate the risk of malaria. Given the absence of a malaria vaccine, prevention remains the most effective remedy.
Dengue fever
In recent years, there has been a slight decrease in dengue cases, but the disease has not been eradicated entirely. Moreover, India remains one of the areas at highest risk for dengue fever. Complicating matters further, there is currently no specific treatment available for dengue, and inadequate management can result in patient fatalities. Therefore, it is crucial to take comprehensive precautions to prevent dengue. The mosquito responsible for transmitting dengue differs from others, and symptoms can manifest within hours of infection. Upon suspecting an infected mosquito bite, prompt testing and appropriate medical assistance are imperative.
Yellow fever
Yellow fever, caused by the flavivirus transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, is more prevalent in the Caribbean, African, and South American regions. Indians typically face minimal exposure to this disease unless they travel to countries with heightened risk. Although fortunately, very few cases of yellow fever have been reported in recent years, it remains a concern that should not be overlooked. Prioritize vaccination against yellow fever if you plan to visit any high-risk regions to ensure your safety. It is strongly advised that individuals get vaccinated before traveling to areas with elevated yellow fever risk.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis, another mosquito-borne disease, poses greater danger compared to others as it can lead to inflammation around the spine, potentially extending to the brain. Without timely treatment, the disease can spread throughout the body. Over the past few years, India has witnessed a gradual increase in encephalitis cases. Individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to this condition. Initial symptoms typically include fever, chills, joint and muscle pain, fatigue, and seizures.
Chikungunya
Finally, chikungunya, a common occurrence in India and other parts of Asia, is included in this list. Approximately 100,000 cases of chikungunya are reported annually. The mosquito responsible for transmitting chikungunya breeds in temperatures above 29 degrees Celsius, typically coinciding with the onset of the monsoon season. Initial symptoms include headache, fever, nausea, and joint pain. Therefore, as the monsoon approaches, it is essential to remain vigilant and take precautions to protect against this illness.