Health Tips to Follow This Rainy Season

The monsoon season brings much-needed relief from the scorching heat, rejuvenating the environment with its showers. However, the rainy season also ushers in a host of health challenges, especially for children and the elderly. Increased humidity, stagnant water, and fluctuating temperatures create a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, and mosquitoes. At Child Help Foundation, we prioritize the well-being of communities, especially vulnerable children. To help families stay healthy and safe this season, here are some essential health tips to follow:

Contaminated water is one of the leading causes of waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhoea during the monsoon. Always drink boiled or filtered water. Encourage children to carry their own water bottles to school and avoid drinking from outside sources. Through our WAS (Water and Sanitation) programme, we have clean drinking water for 22,603 people.

Street food may be tempting, but it’s best avoided during the rainy season due to higher chances of contamination. Eat freshly cooked meals at home. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with clean water, and avoid leafy greens that may carry mud and germs. Through our Zero Hunger progamme, nutritious food is one of our priorities, and we have served healthy meals to 25,93,622 people.

Seasonal fruits like pomegranates, bananas, papayas, and apples are rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants. They help build immunity and keep infections at bay. Including these in children’s daily diet can help improve their overall health. Child Help Foundation conducts monthly ration kit distribution to help tuberculosis patients with their immunity.’

Increased moisture can lead to fungal infections, especially on feet and skin folds. Ensure children wear clean, dry clothes, and change out of wet clothes immediately. Keep nails trimmed and promote frequent handwashing with soap, especially before meals and after using the toilet.

The monsoon is also mosquito season. Diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya are becoming more common. Use mosquito nets, repellents, and wear full-sleeved clothes. Eliminate stagnant water around the house, including in flower pots, coolers, and unused containers.

Promote cleanliness in and around your homes and communities. Dispose of garbage properly, and make sure drainage is not clogged. CHF encourages community-level drives to maintain hygiene and prevent disease outbreaks.

Sudden drops in temperature can lead to colds, coughs, and flu. Keep children warm and dry, especially after playing in the rain. Always carry an umbrella or raincoat, and ensure wet clothes and shoes are dried properly before the next use.

In case of viral outbreaks, it’s best to avoid crowded places. Teach children about respiratory hygiene—using a handkerchief or elbow to cover sneezes and coughs.

At Child Help Foundation, we believe that simple preventive measures can go a long way in ensuring the health and safety of children during the rainy season. By following these tips, parents and caregivers can help protect their families from seasonal illnesses and enjoy the monsoon with peace of mind.

Let us stay alert, stay clean, and stay safe this rainy season!