Even as India is witnessing a surge in Covid-19 cases, the early arrival of rain is also raising the risk of monsoon diseases like seasonal flu (influenza), dengue, malaria and typhoid, among others.
Currently, Maharashtra is among the three regions in India reporting the highest number of Covid-19 cases, Delhi and Kerala being the other two. According to the latest data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the state had reported 210 active Covid-19 cases as of May 26.
At the same time, with the arrival of the monsoon season, Maharashtra is also witnessing heavy rainfall, which poses a risk of various monsoon illnesses. This comes with the possibility of people getting confused about some symptoms resembling those of Covid-19, especially because this not the first time.
The last time Covid-19 took over the world in 2020, there was confusion and this simply serves as a reminder. As cases of the respiratory virus increase, there is a possibility of panic, or lack of people taking it seriously. This reaction can make it difficult for people to differentiate between Covid-19 and seasonal diseases to seek timely medical attention.
Dr Sandeep Gore, who is the director of Emergency Medicine at Fortis Hospital in Mulund says, “Some monsoon diseases like dengue, malaria, leptospirosis, seasonal flu (influenza) and chikungunya present symptoms similar to Covid-19. These include fever, body ache, fatigue, headache, cough and sore throat, and gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting/diarrhea.”
Covid-19 vs monsoon diseases: What’s the difference?
It is important to know the specific symptoms of these diseases to get correct and timely diagnosis and medical attention.
Dr Harish Chafle, who is the senior consultant intensivist chest physician, bronchoscopist and sleep disorders specialist at Gleneagles Hospital in Parel, informs, “To tell the difference, one has to watch out for specific signs of diseases. Dengue and malaria often cause high fever with chills and body rashes, typhoid gives stomach pain and slow-rising fever, while Covid-19 may cause loss of smell, cough, and breathing issues. However, a proper test by a medical professional is the best way to confirm the exact illness and avoid confusion.”
While not all monsoon diseases can get transmitted from person to person, Covid-19 spreads through respiratory droplets. Hence, one needs to be on the lookout for specific symptoms of the respiratory virus not only to get timely treatment but also prevent further spread of infection.
Dr Gore reveals the following ways one can identify Covid-19:
Respiratory symptoms: Dry cough, shortness of breath, and loss of smell or taste are hallmark Covid-19 symptoms and are less common in dengue, malaria or chikungunya.
Fever pattern: Covid-19 fever may be intermittent and often responds to paracetamol, whereas dengue fever is typically high-grade (104–105 degrees Fahrenheit) and persistent, and malaria fever is cyclical.
Gastrointestinal/neurological symptoms: Severe gastrointestinal issues (diarrhea, vomiting) or neurological symptoms (dizziness, seizures) in Covid-19 are less common in monsoon diseases, except typhoid or severe dengue.
Steps to take if you observe symptoms
Experts recommend seeking medical attention if you observe symptoms of Covid-19 or any other monsoon disease.
While it is important to rest well and consume healthy foods and fluids if you experience fever, cough or fatigue, you should also isolate immediately if Covid-19 is suspected, to prevent the spread of infection.
Dr Chafle says, “Monitor your health, wear a mask, and seek medical advice without wasting any time. Get tested to know the exact illness so the right treatment can start without delay. Don’t try any home remedies and avoid self-medication.”
Beyond the symptoms, taking diagnostic tests are important to identify the illness. Dr Gore shares, “Get tested with RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) or Antigen test, along with CBC (Complete Blood Count), Dengue NS1 (Non-Structural Protein 1), and MP (Malarial Parasite) test as per presenting symptoms.”
Age groups and gender at risk
Everyone should be careful about these diseases, take precautions and keep an eye on symptoms; however, certain groups can be more at risk.
While the elderly (above 65 years), immunocompromised individuals, unvaccinated people and those with comorbidities like diabetes and heart disease should be more careful about Covid-19, people living in areas with heavy rainfall, poor drainage and mosquito infestation are more at risk of contracting monsoon diseases.
Additionally, children and pregnant women may be more susceptible to dengue and malaria and individuals with open wounds or exposure to contaminated water may be more at risk of leptospirosis, according to Dr Gore.
Precautions
Indian health experts and authorities have said that there is no need to worry about Covid-19 since most infections are not severe, however, precaution is highly advised. Similarly, one can protect themselves from a range of monsoon diseases through a few simple prevention measures.
Dr Chafle and Dr Gore recommend the following precautions:
Against Covid-19
- Wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces.
- Practice social distancing whenever possible. Avoid being around people who might be sick.
- Ensure you are up to date on your vaccination/booster doses.
- Eat a well-balanced diet, follow cough etiquette, and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Avoid any travel if you are symptomatic.
Against monsoon diseases
- Keep your surroundings clean and dry to stop mosquito breeding. Avoid stagnant water inside and around your home.
- Use mosquito nets, insect repellents, and wear long or full-sleeved clothes.
- Drink clean, boiled water and eat freshly cooked food to avoid infections. Avoid street food or uncovered food.
Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Kindly consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.