Why people fall sick during rainy season – Physicians
Public health physicians have given reasons why a rise in humidity during cold weather often leads to increased cases of illness.
They noted that during the rainy season, many people faced a range of illnesses, from common colds to more severe respiratory infections.
The experts advised Nigerians to take precautions and protect children during rainy seasons to reduce their risk of infection.
They also pointed out that diseases such as flu, cold, cholera, typhoid, and respiratory infections were more common during this time.
Giving insight into why people often fall sick during this period, the physicians told PUNCH Healthwise that excessive humidity fosters the growth of germs and viruses, which facilitates their dissemination and ability to infect people.
A professor of public health, Tanimola Akande said cold weather could weaken the body’s immune system, making people more susceptible to illnesses.
The public health physicians added that the lack of sunlight during the rainy season could lead to reduced Vitamin D levels, further compromising the immune system.
Akande identified specific viruses and bacteria that thrive in cold and wet conditions, including influenza, hepatitis A, and cholera.
He said, “During the rainy season communicable diseases are common and usually on the increase. These diseases include flu, cold, cholera, typhoid, and respiratory infections, among others.”
Among children, respiratory infections and diarrhoea diseases are common in the rainy season
“During cold weather, the body’s immune system is reduced due to various factors related to the weather. The body uses a lot of energy to keep warm and therefore has reduced energy for immunity. Also, exposure to sunlight is less in the rainy season which reduces Vitamin D, and this can lead to reduced immunity. The increase in infections suffered by individuals can also reduce their immunity.
“Some viruses thrive during the rainy season. This includes influenza, hepatitis A, enteroviruses, and mosquito-borne viruses like dengue viruses.
“Some bacteria like vibrio cholera which causes cholera, Salmonella which causes typhoid and E.coli bacteria flourish during the wet season.”
When asked about some common allergens that are prevalent during the rainy season, and how they affect people’s health, Don noted that allergens from pollens, fungal, and mould spores are prevalent during this time, leading to respiratory diseases and asthma.
He added, “Allergens from pollens, fungal and mold spores are prevalent during rain and may lead to respiratory diseases, asthma, and respiratory symptoms like sneezing, cough, and running nose.”
The professor counselled parents to safeguard themselves and their kids by keeping them warm, limiting their exposure to outdoor weather, ensuring they get immunised, and maintaining a healthy diet and level of sanitation.
He noted that by adopting healthy habits, such as regular exercise, adequate nutrition, and good hygiene, people can boost their immune systems and stay healthy during the rainy season and cold weather.
“During the rainy season, children must be protected to prevent these diseases. This includes keeping them warm with appropriate clothing and reducing exposure to the outside temperatures during wet seasons. They should take their vaccinations, and be given adequate nutrition to boost their immunity.
“Reduce exposure to cold temperatures by staying indoors and wearing appropriate clothing to keep warm. Symptoms should be reported to a doctor as soon as possible. It is important to take adequate food to boost nutrition. It is advisable to do regular exercise and maintain good personal and environmental hygiene,” he advised.
The professor, however, debunked common myths about the rainy season, such as the belief that getting wet with rainwater can cause respiratory tract infections.
He said, “Some of the myths about the rainy season include the belief that getting wet with rain water can cause respiratory tract infections and that drinking cold water during the rainy season can cause diseases. Also, some believe that the rainy season increases joint pains. These beliefs are not true.”
On his part, a public health expert, Dr Solomon Olorunfemi said allergens from pollens, fungal, and mold spores are prevalent during this time, leading to respiratory diseases and asthma.
Olorunfemi explained that people often become more sedentary due to the weather, adding that these allergens can worsen existing conditions, making it essential for people to take precautions.
He added that reduced physical activity can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illness.
In addition to these factors, the physician warned that stagnant water from heavy rains can become a breeding ground for pathogens.
He stated that diseases such as typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis are more likely to spread when sanitation practices are not maintained.
While stressing that preventive measures are crucial to staying healthy during this season, the public health expert recommended practising good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing and avoiding contact with sick individuals.
To combat the risks associated with high humidity, Olorunfemi advised using dehumidifiers and ensuring proper ventilation in areas prone to dampness.
“Managing indoor humidity can help reduce the risk of respiratory issues related to mould,” he noted.
For those concerned about waterborne diseases, the physician emphasised the importance of consuming only treated or boiled water and maintaining proper sanitation.
“Avoiding areas with stagnant water and practising safe food handling can help prevent infections,” he concluded.
