The monsoon season is synonymous with cases of flu and other infections. According to statistics, most people get sick in the months of June, July and August due to the rainy season. This can be because of fluctuating temperatures and also due to incessant dampness all around us on surfaces. Waterborne diseases also become common during this time. Some of the most effective ways of enjoying the rains without constantly rubbing your nose plus and struggling with an itchy throat are mentioned below:
- One can never be certain of the water and the hygiene level of ingredients which are used in preparing street foods or even food in restaurants. Therefore, it is always the safest bet to opt for home-cooked meals, especially during the rainy season to avoid infections from viruses.
- The cosiness of the rainy season may not be as much of a motivator to regularly drink water like in the summer months. But it is extremely important to stay hydrated so that common causes of discomfort like headaches, dizziness, stomach aches etc can be avoided. If you just can’t remember to drink water, setting periodic alarms on your phone can do the trick of reminding you to do that.
- Increasing the frequency of ingesting foods or supplements which boost immunity can be a real lifesaver during these months. Examples of some foods which can make our immune system stronger are citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, broccoli, ginger and spinach among others.
- Investing in clothing and footwear which do not slip and dry easily is the key to surviving monsoons. It is an eventuality that one will get drenched in the downpour some time or the other during regular commute or grocery runs, so it is imperative to wear clothes which do not remain wet so that hypothermia and pneumonia (in extreme cases) and the common cold (in mild cases) can be effectively prevented.
- Maintaining personal hygiene is a must to keep these viruses and bacteria circulating in the atmosphere at bay. It is not in our hands to avoid coming in contact with these germs, but if we follow good hygiene practices, it becomes really easy to fight against them. Use of hand sanitizers and disinfectant sprays are effective in this case. The oldest trick of regular washing of hands also works wonders.