Monsoon Diseases on the Rise Across India

With the 2026 monsoon season bringing erratic rainfall and high humidity across India, health authorities are warning citizens about the rising risk of seasonal diseases. Communicable diseases have claimed 186 lives in Kerala this year, with 48 deaths reported in the first 20 days of June alone. With monsoon setting in and cases of Shigella, influenza, dengue fever and other illnesses on the rise, health experts warn that the situation may worsen in the coming months.

Understanding the Disease Risk

The current monsoon pattern, characterised by fluctuating rainfall, high humidity and stagnant water, is linked to a rise in respiratory illnesses, allergies and water-borne infections. While many people associate the monsoon with water-borne diseases such as dengue and leptospirosis, respiratory illnesses are also on the rise during this period.

According to Dr Sneha Tirpude, Senior Consultant Pulmonologist, changing weather patterns can aggravate allergies, asthma and seasonal infections, making preventive care more important than ever. "The monsoon season is a time when respiratory diseases tend to increase because of the combination of high humidity, changing temperatures and increased exposure to allergens," she explains.

Safe Drinking Water: The First Line of Defence

Health advisories across states stress the importance of preventing waterborne diseases such as acute gastroenteritis, jaundice and typhoid by consuming filtered or boiled water. Drinking clean, filtered water and avoiding cut fruits or uncovered street food that may have been exposed to contaminated water are essential precautions.

Telangana's health department has issued a public advisory urging citizens to wash hands regularly, particularly before and after meals, and avoid stale food. The Meghalaya health advisory also recommends using mosquito nets or repellents, wearing full-sleeved clothing and avoiding contact with floodwater.

Natural Protection Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Before chemical mosquito repellents existed, Indian households relied on herbal fumigation using neem leaves, dried herbs and natural resins. This ancient practice is being rediscovered as an effective natural alternative. For better protection, experts recommend combining herbal fumigation with practical habits like removing stagnant water, installing window screens and wearing full-sleeved clothing during evenings.

Hygiene Practices for Disease Prevention

Regular handwashing, cleaning shared desks and surfaces, and staying updated on vaccinations can help reduce the spread of infections. "Annual influenza vaccination is particularly valuable for older adults, susceptible individuals with chronic health conditions, healthcare workers and those with frequent large-group interactions," experts note.

Dr Sharma emphasises that prevention of fungal infections lies in following good hygiene practices. The skin should be kept dry and clean, especially after bath or when the skin gets drenched in the rain. Cotton clothing should be worn, and one should wear different socks each day along with changing wet clothes.

What the Experts Say

Dr Anish  emphasises that the focus should be on preventing infections. "The number of deaths is proportionate to the number of cases. So the focus should be on prevention. We need specific programmes," he says. Dr Rajeev Jayadevan adds that effective interventions, sanitation and cleaning drives play a significant role in preventing the spread of communicable diseases.

Staying Safe Through the Season

With the monsoon expected to revive in the coming days, health authorities are advising citizens to remain cautious, keep their surroundings clean and prioritise preventive care. By following these natural disease prevention tips and maintaining good hygiene, Indians can enjoy a healthy monsoon season in 2026.