Monsoon brings relief from heat but also increases health risks, with Assam witnessing a rise in seasonal infections and diseases
After months of scorching heat, the arrival of monsoon often brings a welcome sense of relief. The fresh smell of rain, cooler temperatures and greenery create an atmosphere of calm and rejuvenation.
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However, beneath this refreshing change in weather lies another reality: summer and the rainy season together create ideal conditions for several diseases to spread. From mosquito-borne infections and waterborne illnesses to viral fevers and heat-related conditions, hospitals witness a rise in patients during this period. Health experts say that while many people associate the season only with pleasant weather, they often overlook the increased risk of infections that comes with it.
Every year, hospitals across Assam witness a familiar pattern of seasonal illnesses. As temperatures fluctuate and the rains become frequent, outpatient departments begin filling with patients complaining of fever, stomach infections, dehydration, respiratory illnesses and mosquito-borne diseases. What many dismiss as "just a seasonal fever" can sometimes develop into a serious health condition if ignored.
Doctors say the transition from scorching heat to heavy rainfall is one of the most challenging periods for public health, and this year is proving to be no different.
Heavy rainfall often leads to waterlogging and flooding. Open drains overflow, drinking water sources become contaminated and stagnant pools of water begin appearing around homes, construction sites and roadsides.
These conditions provide the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes while also increasing the spread of bacteria, viruses and parasites.
Dr. Abhineet Sarmah of Assam Medical College said this is precisely why hospitals see a rise in both waterborne and mosquito-borne diseases during the season.
"Mostly waterborne diseases become more common during summer, especially during the monsoon, because of increased rainfall," he explained.
Diseases such as acute gastroenteritis, typhoid and leptospirosis become more common after floods and heavy rains. Contaminated food and drinking water allow harmful microorganisms to spread quickly, particularly in areas where sanitation is poor.
Although cholera is now relatively uncommon, it has not been completely eliminated.
Dr. Sarmah recalled that a few cholera cases were reported at Assam Medical College and Hospital around two years ago, reminding people that the disease still exists and can resurface if preventive measures are ignored.
Among all seasonal illnesses, Japanese encephalitis (JE) continues to worry health experts the most.
Unlike common viral fever, JE affects the brain and can become life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. Assam, especially Guwahati, remains one of the states where cases continue to be reported every year.
Speaking to another doctor, Dr. Zabir Zaman said they have observed a rise in Japanese encephalitis cases across the state. He also added that Assam is the most affected state for JE.
What makes the situation more concerning, according to Dr. Sarmah, is that many people remain unaware that vaccine against JE is available.
"Even though vaccines are available, many people are not aware of them," he said.
Doctors believe greater awareness and timely immunisation could prevent many severe infections.
While mosquito-borne diseases often dominate headlines, they are only part of the story.
Dr. Zabir Zaman says his outpatient department has recently been seeing a sharp increase in viral fever, dehydration, low blood pressure and sunstroke.
"The weather during this season keeps changing. We are receiving many patients with viral fever, low blood pressure and sunstroke," he said.
The combination of intense daytime heat followed by heavy rainfall puts additional stress on the human body. People working outdoors often become dehydrated without realising it, while sudden changes in temperature may make individuals more vulnerable to viral infections.
Seasonal diseases do not discriminate, but some people are far more vulnerable than others.
Children, who often spend long hours outdoors during school vacations, are at greater risk of mosquito bites and Japanese encephalitis.
Outdoor labourers, farmers and sewage workers regularly come into contact with contaminated water, increasing their chances of contracting diseases like leptospirosis.
Healthcare workers, because of their constant exposure to patients, also face higher occupational risks.
Then there are people whose immunity is already compromised.
According to Dr. Sarmah, individuals living with diabetes and other chronic illnesses often find it harder to fight infections, making them more susceptible to seasonal diseases.
In reality, however, anyone can become ill if basic precautions are ignored.
The seasonal spike in illnesses is being felt in homes as well.
Raghav Dev, a resident of Guwahati, said fever had spread through almost his entire family over the past week.
"My whole family has been suffering from fever lately. We all feel extremely weak, although there isn't much temperature," he said.
Like many people, Raghav initially tried to identify the cause himself.
"Maybe it is because of the sudden weather change. I also drank cold drinks and cold water after coming home in the hot sun, and I thought that might have caused my fever."
His experience reflects a belief that many Indians have grown up hearing, that drinking something cold immediately after exposure to heat leads to illness.
Dr. Zabir Zaman is quick to clear up the misconception.
"We often hear people saying cold drinks or cold water after coming from the sun cause fever. However, there is no scientific research proving this," he explained.
One of the biggest challenges, doctors say, is that many seasonal illnesses begin with similar symptoms.
A mild fever may actually be dengue. Body ache could be the beginning of influenza. A stomach upset might not simply be indigestion but the early stage of acute gastroenteritis.
Ignoring symptoms or relying solely on home remedies often delays diagnosis and treatment.
Doctors advise people to seek medical attention if fever persists for more than two days, if severe headaches or vomiting develop, if breathing becomes difficult, or if signs of dehydration appear.
Despite the long list of seasonal diseases, doctors insist that prevention remains remarkably simple. They suggested:
Drink purified water. Wash hands regularly with soap. Avoid eating unhygienic street food during floods.
Ensure there is no stagnant water around the house.
Use mosquito nets and repellents. Wear full-sleeved clothing during evenings. Take recommended vaccinations, particularly against Japanese encephalitis where advised.
These small habits, often overlooked in daily life, can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
The monsoon is a season people eagerly wait for. It cools the earth, fills rivers, nourishes crops and brings communities together. Yet it also reminds us how closely human health is connected to the environment.
A puddle outside the house can become a mosquito breeding site. A contaminated glass of water can lead to days of illness. A neglected fever can turn into a medical emergency.
The rains are meant to be enjoyed, but wisely.
As doctors continue to witness a seasonal rise in infections, their message is simple: don't panic, but don't be careless either. Awareness, timely vaccination, safe drinking water, proper hygiene and early medical consultation remain the strongest shields against the diseases that quietly accompany the season.
After all, the true beauty of the monsoon lies not just in watching the rain fall, but in staying healthy enough to enjoy it.