5 Monsoon Mistakes Making You Sick

The monsoon brings relief from the scorching heat, cozy chai-pakora sessions, and beautiful evenings. But it also brings a wave of seasonal illnesses like colds, coughs, viral fevers, stomach bugs, and fungal infections. While getting caught in the rain is an obvious culprit, everyday habits are major contributors. "People underestimate how vulnerable their bodies are during weather changes," he says. "It’s not just about getting wet. It’s about how you eat, what you touch, and how long you stay in damp clothes."

Here are 5 everyday habits to break this monsoon to stay healthy:

Hanging Out in Wet Clothes & Footwear:

Staying in rain-soaked clothes or damp shoes for hours creates the perfect warm, moist environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive. This leads to skin infections, fungal growth (like athlete's foot), and chills that lower your immunity, making you prone to colds and coughs.

Change immediately! Carry an extra set of clothes or a raincoat if rain is likely. Dry yourself thoroughly, especially your hair, feet, and between toes. Ensure wet shoes are dried completely before wearing them again.

Skipping Hand Hygiene (Especially Before Eating):

Monsoon humidity helps viruses and bacteria survive longer on surfaces (doorknobs, railings, phones). Not washing hands before eating or after coming home is a top cause of stomach infections (like food poisoning, gastroenteritis) and spreading cold/flu viruses.

Wash hands frequently and properly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Make it a habit before eating, after using the restroom, and after touching common surfaces outdoors. Carry alcohol-based hand sanitizer for times when soap and water aren't available.

Indulging Carelessly in Street Food & Raw Salads:

Rainwater can contaminate water sources and make it easier for germs to grow on food. Street food exposed to the damp, humid air and potentially unclean water is a major risk for stomach infections and food poisoning. Raw salads and cut fruits sold outside might be washed in contaminated water.

Be extremely cautious with outside food. Opt for freshly cooked, piping hot meals whenever possible. Avoid pre-cut fruits, raw salads (especially from outside), and stale food. If craving street food, choose vendors with high turnover and good hygiene practices, but moderation is key. Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly at home with clean water before eating.

Drinking Unsafe Water:

Water supplies can easily get contaminated during heavy rains due to leaks or flooding. Drinking this water is a leading cause of waterborne diseases like typhoid, hepatitis A, and severe stomach upsets.

Stick to safe water sources. Drink only boiled, filtered, or reliably packaged bottled water. Carry your own water bottle when going out. Avoid adding ice to drinks from unknown sources, as it's often made from tap water. Ensure your home water filter is well-maintained.

Blasting the AC Right After Coming Home Wet:

Coming in from the humid rain and immediately sitting in strong air-conditioning causes a sudden, drastic drop in body temperature. This thermal shock stresses your body and weakens your immune response, making you much more susceptible to catching a cold or cough.

Adjust gradually. First, change out of your wet clothes and dry off completely. Let your body temperature normalize naturally in a cool (not cold) room before turning on the AC. If using AC, set it to a moderate temperature (around 24–26°C) rather than very cold.

Simple Prevention is Key:

By being mindful of these everyday habits and making small changes, you can significantly strengthen your defenses:

Boost Immunity: Eat a balanced diet rich in Vitamin C (citrus fruits, amla) and zinc. Stay hydrated with warm fluids like herbal teas and soups.

Keep Surroundings Dry: Ensure good ventilation at home to prevent dampness and mold growth. Use disinfectants to clean floors.

Don't Ignore Symptoms: If you feel unwell, rest, drink fluids, and consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.

Embrace the beauty of the monsoon but do it wisely. Breaking these five common habits is your best shield against seasonal sniffles, coughs, and infections. Stay dry, stay clean, eat safe, and enjoy the rains in good health!

Disclaimer: The health tips shared on this blog are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine. Content is based on publicly available sources and edited for clarity.