In the Philippines, there are only two seasons--wet and dry. In the past months, Filipinos have experienced typhoons and monsoon rains. The wet season has started. During this time, your concerns are not just limited to flooding, there are also common rainy season diseases that you need to be aware of.

The cold weather, heavy rains, and flooding can compromise one’s health. This is the time of the year when you should beware of rainy season diseases and stay protected as much as possible. Here’s a list of the most common diseases that commonly prevail during the wet season.

Most Common Rainy Season Diseases to Watch Out For

Dengue

Dengue is one of the common diseases in the rainy season that should not be taken lightly. It is common in tropical countries such as the Philippines. Dengue is transmitted through the bite of an Aedes mosquito. It mostly affects children and when not managed properly, it could lead to mortality.

Prevention:

• Discard bottles, containers, and other unused items that may accumulate water.
• Ensure that gutters are clean and not clogged to prevent the accumulation of rainwater that could be a breeding place for mosquitoes.
• Make it a habit to clean flower vases, drums, and pots at least once a week.

Food and waterborne diseases

Diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever are common rainy season diseases that may be acquired through contaminated food and water.

Diarrhea is characterized by frequent loose or liquid bowel movements caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasitic organisms.

Cholera is an acute intestinal infection caused by the bacteria Vibrio cholera which causes watery diarrhea. When neglected, it can lead to severe dehydration and death. 

Typhoid fever is an infection that may be acquired through contaminated food and water or through close contact with an infected person. 

Prevention:

• Drink water from safe sources.
• If unsure of water quality, boil water for 3 minutes before drinking.
• Ensure that food is well-cooked.
• Use a clean food cover to prevent contamination. 
• Use a hand sanitizer, isopropyl or ethyl alcohol when soap and water are not available to keep hands clean.

Influenza

Also known as flu, influenza is a viral infection that targets the respiratory system. One may acquire influenza through contact with an infected person, particularly when they sneeze or cough.

Prevention:

• Stay away from crowded places.
• Avoid contact with infected persons.
• Make it a habit to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Keep hands clean and sanitized frequently.
• Get vaccinated against the flu virus.

Leptospirosis

One of the common diseases in the rainy season that is dreaded by many is leptospirosis. It is a bacterial infection caused by the urine or feces of infected animals, particularly rats. Wading through a flood or getting an open wound exposed to contaminated soil, water, and vegetation are some of the most common causes of leptospirosis.

Prevention:

• Do not wade in flood water.
• Disinfect regularly to maintain well-sanitized surroundings.
• If there are rodents in your house, control them or get help from pest control experts.

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There are common diseases in the rainy season that emphasize the importance of taking care of one’s health. These diseases threaten one’s well-being but through proper disinfection, hand hygiene, sanitation, and by boosting the immune system, these diseases can be prevented.

Now that rainy days have started, you can up your protection against the most common rainy season diseases. Check out the products that you may need all year long.