Kolkata's monsoon brings welcome relief from the summer heat, but it also creates ideal conditions for several illnesses to spread — from mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria, to waterborne infections like typhoid and gastroenteritis.
Dengue and malaria both spread through mosquitoes that breed in stagnant water, which becomes far more common during the rains — in flowerpots, discarded containers, clogged drains, or even bottle caps. Regularly emptying and cleaning any areas where water can collect around the home is one of the simplest and most effective preventive steps a family can take.
Waterborne illnesses like typhoid, cholera, and gastroenteritis typically spread through contaminated water or food. During monsoon months, it's worth being extra cautious about drinking only boiled or properly filtered water, avoiding street food that may have been exposed to standing water, and washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
Children and elderly family members are usually the most vulnerable during this season, as their immune systems are either still developing or naturally weaker. Watching for early symptoms — persistent fever, unusual fatigue, joint pain, or digestive issues — and seeking medical attention promptly rather than waiting it out can prevent complications.
A few other simple habits go a long way during the season: keeping surroundings dry and well-drained, using mosquito repellents or nets especially during dawn and dusk, and maintaining good hand hygiene. If fever persists for more than two days, it's best not to self-medicate and to get it evaluated by a doctor, since several monsoon illnesses can look similar in their early stages but require very different treatment.