Summer this year has been one of the worst ever with temperatures soaring as high as 35 °C. Meanwhile, viral and waterborne diseases running rampant all around us. While summers are the best time to plan a vacation with your kids, the heat brings with it a host of ailments that can dampen your spirits. Here are 5 common summer illnesses and preventive measures to fend off these ailments.

Headache

Ever wondered why you get a headache after spending a day by the pool or in the park during summer? Frequent and long exposures to direct sun rays, inadequate hydration, over-exhaustion, and disturbed sleep during summer are the perfect recipe for a splitting headache. You can prevent headaches by taking necessary precautions before stepping out in the sun during summer such as drinking at least eight to ten glasses of water throughout the day, wearing a cap while you are out, and eating small meals more frequently. Make sure to drink clean, purified water as it will help you recover better.

Jaundice

Jaundice or Hepatitis A is a water-borne disease that is largely prevalent during the summer months due to the increased breeding of the disease-causing virus in contaminated water and food cooked using unhygienic practices. Jaundice affects the functioning of the liver leading to an overproduction of bile. This makes your skin, eyes, and nails look yellow. Hepatitis A can be prevented through vaccination. However, it is best you stay away from street food and drink filtered water during summers.

Skin rashes

Excessive perspiration during the summer months gives rise to a variety of skin rashes due to the breeding of bacteria and fungi on your moist skin. Reddish skin rashes that can be dry and itchy are very common during summer. You can easily prevent these rashes by wearing comfortable cotton clothing, using a prickly heat powder to prevent sweat accumulation, and maintaining bodily hygiene.

Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral disease that is prevalent mainly during summer. It is caused by the Varicella Zoster virus that breeds in damp areas. This disease starts off with the appearance of itchy patches all over the body followed by high fever, fatigue, and headache. The only way to prevent chickenpox is to stay away from people who have contracted the virus. If you do get infected, stay indoors till you fully recover. This may take up to ten days. Remember not to scratch the blisters as the fluid inside can spread the infection.

Cold and cough

Cold and cough are as common in summers as in winters. This is because we drink cold water/beverages and spend a lot of time in air-conditioned spaces. These diseases can be prevented by drinking purified water at room temperature or drinking cold water mixed with normal water. Do not turn on the air conditioner as soon as you enter the house from the sweltering heat or keep it turned on throughout the night.

Now that you are aware of the diseases that occur frequently during summer and how you can steer clear of them, why not share this post on social media to keep your friends informed as well?

Also Read: Mango: The Summer Fruit That Helps You Sleep