Why Monsoon Season Demands Extra Health Attention

The monsoon season in Nepal brings relief from the summer heat, but it also brings a surge in waterborne diseases, respiratory infections, and vector-borne illnesses. Every year, we see a significant increase in patient visits for diarrhea, typhoid, dengue, and leptospirosis during the rainy months.

At NITA Clinic, we've compiled practical, doctor-approved tips to help you and your family stay healthy throughout the monsoon season.

1. Drink Only Safe Water

The most critical step during monsoon is ensuring the water you drink is safe. Contaminated water is the primary cause of typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis A.

• Always boil tap water for at least one minute before drinking
• Use a water purifier with UV or RO filtration
• Avoid street-side drinks, sugarcane juice, and untreated water
• When eating out, request bottled or purified water

2. Be Careful with Food

Food contamination rises sharply during monsoon. Flies and insects carry pathogens from garbage to your food, and the warm, humid weather accelerates bacterial growth.

• Avoid raw salads and cut fruits from street vendors
• Eat freshly cooked, hot meals whenever possible
• Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly before cooking
• Keep kitchen surfaces clean and dry
• Refrigerate leftovers immediately and reheat thoroughly

3. Protect Against Dengue and Malaria

Standing water is the breeding ground for mosquitoes that carry dengue and malaria. Kathmandu has seen increasing dengue cases during recent monsoon seasons.

• Empty and clean all containers that collect water (flower pots, buckets, tyres)
• Use mosquito nets, especially for children and elderly
• Apply mosquito repellent when outdoors
• Wear long sleeves and pants during early morning and evening
• Seek immediate medical attention for sudden high fever with body aches

4. Respiratory Health During Monsoon

The increased humidity and temperature fluctuations during monsoon can trigger respiratory issues, especially in children and those with asthma or chronic lung disease.

• Keep your home well-ventilated to prevent mold growth
• Change wet clothes immediately after getting drenched
• Wash hands frequently, especially before meals
• If you have asthma, keep your inhaler accessible at all times

5. Leptospirosis — The Hidden Monsoon Risk

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through contact with water or soil contaminated by animal urine. It's often contracted by walking through flooded streets barefoot.

• Always wear proper footwear when walking through puddles or flooded areas
• Wash and dry your feet thoroughly after exposure to floodwater
• Seek medical care if you develop fever, headache, and muscle pain after flood exposure

6. When to See a Doctor Immediately

Some monsoon illnesses can escalate quickly. Don't delay — visit NITA Clinic or your nearest health facility if you experience:

• High fever (above 38.5°C / 101.3°F) for more than 2 days
• Severe diarrhea or vomiting with signs of dehydration
• Skin rashes with fever
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice)

Vaccination — Your Best Shield

Several monsoon illnesses are vaccine-preventable. We recommend ensuring you and your family are up to date on:

• Typhoid vaccine (especially important for children)
• Hepatitis A vaccine
• Cholera vaccine (for high-risk individuals)

Visit our vaccination clinic to check which vaccines you or your family may need.

Stay hydrated, eat well, and don't ignore early symptoms. Monsoon health protection starts with simple daily habits.

If you have any concerns about your health or need a lab test, NITA Clinic is open 7 days a week. Call us at +977 01-4533361 or book an appointment online.