Though monsoon brings cheers giving respite from scorching heat, it also results in a spike of water-borne diseases.

Experts say most people during monsoon suffer from common cold, cough and viral fever as viruses thrive in humid conditions. Besides, monsoon also leads to a spurt in diseases like cholera, typhoid, diarrhoea and viral hepatitis, mostly Hepatitis A and E which occur due to consumption of contaminated food.

According to Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Diseases Hospital in Kathmandu, as many as 36 patients have been admitted for the treatment of various water-borne diseases, mostly diarrhoea and viral infections, since June 15, or in the last one week. 

People must maintain hygiene to avoid these diseases, said Dr Anup Bastola of the hospital. “With many people working in the field during rainy season, when paddy plantation at its peak, the chances of getting infected with various diseases are higher during monsoon. Awareness about personal hygiene and sanitation can save people from water-borne diseases. We encourage people to chemically treat water before using it for drinking purpose,” he said.

Last year, 717 people were admitted to the hospital for acute gastroenteritis.

Experts say poor sanitation during monsoon can easily spread the diseases, as it prepares the breeding ground for mosquitoes. 

Monsoon maladies

- Common cold, cough, viral fever

- Malaria

- Typhoid

- Hepatitis A

- Diarrhoea

- Chikungunya fever

- Skin problems