10 ways to keep yourself safe from gastroenteritis or stomach infections this monsoon
We all know that monsoons are actually welcome guests and nothing but a blessing for farmers who need frequent downpours to water their fields. But during monsoon, many people suffer from gastroenteritis or stomach infections because of bacterial contamination by harmful microbes that thrive in warm and damp conditions: These include Salmonella and E. coli bacteria as well as parasites like worms, which are spread by water channels running underground during rains known as infiltration.
What is Gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis is a viral disease that affects the gastrointestinal system. Eating food or drinking water that is contaminated with bacteria, toxins, and parasites can make it unpalatable for our digestive system. Foodborne/waterborne illnesses can be very dangerous and even fatal.
What are the symptoms of gastroenteritis? Diarrhea and vomiting are the most common symptoms of gastroenteritis accompanied by stomach cramps, fever, headaches, and nausea.
With the right preparation and precaution, you can ensure that there are no gastroenteritis or stomach infections. The best way to avoid this completely is by using the following 10 ways!
1. High level of personal hygiene
Try to maintain a high level of personal hygiene at all times but especially during monsoons. Don’t forget to wash your hands after using the restroom thoroughly with soap. Always wash your hands before handling food. Keep yourself dry at all times.
2. Drink Clean Water
Considering the poor quality of water during the monsoon, it is best to consume boiled water or filtered water. Make sure the water bottles or other water storage containers at home are regularly washed. Don’t forget to put a lid on the water container. If possible, always carry your own bottle of water whenever you step out.
3. Eat Hot Food
Whether at home or outside, eating hot food is the safest bet during monsoon. The high temperature kills any organisms present in the food that can cause infection.
4. Avoid pre-cut fruits
Pre-cut fruits especially when not stored correctly have a high chance of being contaminated. Always wash the fruits before consuming and try to eat freshly peeled and cut fruit over pre-cut fruits.
5. Avoid eating junk or outside food, especially roadside food
Roadside food outlets have higher chances of being contaminated with pathogens. Due to low hygiene standards, the food they serve could be contaminated with Escherichia coli, Salmonella and Shigella. If the food served is raw or undercooked food it is at an even higher risk of being contaminated. Precaution is always better than cure, so avoid eating outside food for the season.
6. Take special care of children
Children are more likely to get infected easily. Make sure they are vaccinated. Make sure they maintain good personal hygiene as well.
7. Stalk up on antibiotics
Make sure your medical kits at home always have antibiotics. They should be taken only if prescribed by doctors but keep them handy. Especially while travelling.
8. Follow a hygiene routine after getting drenched in rain
All of us enjoy getting drenched in rain, especially kids. Jumping in puddles is always fun. Until it’s not. Stagnant water bodies are full of microorganisms and bacteria that cause infections. Make sure you wash your hands and feet with soap once you return home to minimise transmission. Dry them thoroughly and change into dry comfortable clothing.
9. Take care of your feet
Have a good pair of footwear for the monsoon. Avoid using socks, as they can easily get wet and keep your feet damp for long hours leading to skin infections. Don’t forget to remove your shoes outside the house to avoid bringing bacteria inside your home.
10. Maintain your immunity
Lower immunity can make you easily susceptible to infections. So, make sure you take your vitamins like vitamin C and other immunity-boosting supplements regularly.
If you are experiencing bouts of diarrhoea, stomach cramps vomiting, and headaches please consult your doctor. You can consult a doctor at A.J. Hospital, Mangalore, call us at +91 824 222 5533 or visit our website to book an appointment.