Monsoon Woes: Pediatrician Shares How To Protect Your Child From Monsoon Illnesses
Children fall sick in monsoon due to a sharp rise in waterborne infections. A pediatrician explains how you can keep your children safe from seasonal illnesses.
As monsoon showers sweep across Maharashtra, hospitals in cities like Pune and Mumbai are seeing a sharp rise in paediatric waterborne infections. Among them, doctors have reported an increase in seasonal illnesses like diarrhoea, typhoid, and jaundice.
'This season has seen nearly a 40% spike in monsoon-related infections among children," says Dr. Rohini Nagarkar, Senior Consultant and Academic Head of Paediatrics at Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital, Pune. She attributes the surge to a combination of waterlogging, poor drainage, and contamination of drinking water supplies – a recurring concern during heavy rains.
When Rain Breeds Risk
Pathogens such as E. coli, rotavirus, hepatitis A, and cholera thrive in stagnant water and unclean environments. 'Children are especially vulnerable due to their underdeveloped immune systems and greater exposure to unhygienic surroundings," Dr. Nagarkar warns.
Common culprits include street food, shared water bottles, and improperly washed produce.
Early symptoms may seem mild, such as stomach cramps or fatigue, but can quickly escalate. 'Persistent vomiting, loose stools, lethargy, dry mouth, or yellowing of the skin can indicate serious dehydration or jaundice," she cautions.
Fortunately, most of these illnesses are preventable with basic precautions. Boiling water, practising proper hand hygiene, avoiding street food, and ensuring children are vaccinated against typhoid and hepatitis are simple but effective steps. 'In high-risk areas, routine health check-ups can help catch infections early," Dr. Nagarkar adds.
While monsoons bring cooler temperatures and green landscapes, they also demand greater vigilance. With the right preventive measures and timely medical care, families can safeguard their children's health and let them enjoy the season safely.
In a season where joy and illness often go hand in hand, awareness remains a family's strongest ally. As infections rise, so does the need for proactive parenting and community-level sanitation efforts. 'It's not just about treating the illness, it's about preventing it before it reaches our children," Dr. Nagarkar emphasises.
With simple, consistent care and timely intervention, families can turn the tide against monsoon-related health threats.
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First Published:
July 26, 2025, 15:30 IST
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