The monsoon season ushers in the next threat of infectious illnesses, particularly for the aged inhabitants since seniors, with their weaker immune programs and pre-existing health situations, are notably inclined to sicknesses. To guarantee their well-being and security, it turns into important to implement efficient preventive measures throughout this damp and humid interval.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Divya Singh, Senior Surgeon at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Director at Maaiya Social Change Front Foundation, asserted, “In an era where global health is an ever-evolving landscape, staying informed about emerging infectious diseases is paramount. According to clinical statistics, infectious diseases present notable threats to public health, accounting for nearly 13.7 million deaths globally, with respiratory and bloodstream infections proving the most lethal. Across the course of history, spanning from past pandemics like plague, smallpox, and the recent Covid-19 to persistent health challenges like tuberculosis, AIDS and hepatitis, these diseases have imposed substantial clinical burdens.”

According to her, “Ailments such as malaria, flu and cholera contribute to remarkable annual statistics, underscoring the critical need for a robust and comprehensive public health infrastructure. With the rise of novel pathogens, the emergence of drug-resistant strains and changing disease patterns, understanding the origins and dynamics and implementing proactive measures is of utmost importance. Mitigating the dissemination of infectious diseases necessitates a comprehensive approach tailored to the disease type, transmission mode, and local circumstances. Vaccination and hygiene practices are the foremost pillars for combating infectious diseases.”

She suggested, “Practicing proper hand hygiene, maintaining sanitary environments, and creating awareness about hygiene practices and disease transmission empowers individuals to fight against infectious diseases and prevent their spread. In addition to timely detection, responsive action, and robust surveillance systems, isolating infected individuals and implementing quarantine measures can collectively bolster public health resilience and foster a shield against infectious disease proliferation. Remaining up to date with the latest vaccinations and following up with the recurrent yearly vaccinations helps build herd immunity especially for the children, elderly and immunocompromised. Governments have a responsibility of monitoring & surveillance to catch and detect emerging infections however, keeping ourselves vigilant of any emerging symptoms in our neighborhood is the responsibility of every citizen & members of communities. Lastly, practicing ways to boost immunity and aiding the natural defense of body to fight and ward off infection will aid not just in preventing infectious diseases but long term health and higher immune tolerance too. These include exercise, proper diet, quality sleep, natural immune boosting foods and optimum vitamin, micronutrients and minerals intake.”

Dr Veena Aggarwal, Trustee at Heart Care Foundation of India, CMD and Group Editor-in-Chief at IJCP Group of Publications and Medtalks, shared, “In our dynamic global environment, emerging infectious diseases pose significant public health risks. Societal, technological, and environmental shifts continually influence infectious diseases on a global scale, leading to new disease emergence and the resurgence of existing ones, often in drug-resistant forms. From historical pandemics like plague and smallpox to chronic ailments such as tuberculosis and syphilis, these diseases impose substantial clinical burdens. Malaria, sexually transmitted diseases, tuberculosis, and cholera present staggering annual statistics, emphasizing the necessity for a robust public health framework. Recent statistics witnessed 13·7 million deaths worldwide from infectious syndromes, with respiratory infections and bloodstream infections being the deadliest.”

She revealed, “According to clinical studies, modern factors, including rapid population growth, urban migration, poverty, international travel, changes in disease-transmitting animal habitats, compromised immunity and alterations in food distribution, are chief contributors to the rise of infectious diseases. Additionally, frequent visits to clinics, hospital stays, and being in close contact with healthcare professionals can also elevate the risk of hospital-acquired infections, predominantly bloodstream infections (BSI), pneumonia (e.g., ventilator-associated pneumonia [VAP]), urinary tract infections (UTI), and surgical site infections (SSI). The recent rise in incidences of antibiotic-resistant pathogens caused due to drug overuse is further aggravating the risk and severity of infectious diseases underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive understanding, proactive prevention, and effective control strategies.”

Dr Veena Aggarwal highlighted, “Though combating infectious diseases involves a multifaceted approach tailored to disease type, transmission mode, and local conditions, vaccination and good hygiene practices are preliminary steps toward disease control. Regular hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and covering the nose and mouth while sneezing can prevent the transmission of germs. Moreover, access to clean water and adequate sanitation facilities are critical to manage the spread and eliminate disease-causing pathogens. In addition to raising mass awareness, early detection, rapid response, and effective surveillance systems also play a significant role in infectious disease management. As new diseases continue to emerge, preemptive action is essential.”

She really helpful, “Establishing vigilant public health systems, international collaboration, research, and information sharing are pivotal in addressing global infectious disease threats. Such collective initiatives hold the potential to yield novel treatments, develop requisite vaccines, and formulate suitable strategies for disease prevention and control, eventually benefiting communities worldwide. Ultimately it boils down to each one practicing one – if we keep ourselves and our surroundings clean, the world will be a more hygienic and liveable place for everyone.”

Dr Vishal Sehgal, President at Portea Medical, advised –

• Personal hygiene: Encourage common handwashing with cleaning soap and water for at the least 20 seconds, particularly after coming into contact with doubtlessly contaminated surfaces. Hand sanitizers can be utilized as a substitute when cleaning soap and water are usually not accessible.
• Vaccinations: Ensuring that aged people are up-to-date with their vaccinations is essential. Vaccines such because the flu shot and the one for pneumonia can present added safety throughout the monsoon season.
• Personal and residential hygiene: A clear dwelling setting goes a good distance in stopping the unfold of infectious illnesses. Regularly disinfect frequently-touched surfaces, reminiscent of doorknobs, gentle switches and tabletops.
• Nutrition and weight loss program: A balanced weight loss program is important for sustaining a robust immune system. Encourage the consumption of a wide range of fruits, greens, entire grains, and lean proteins. Adequate hydration can also be essential. Consider incorporating conventional natural cures identified for his or her immune-boosting properties, reminiscent of turmeric, ginger, and holy basil (Tulsi), into the aged’s weight loss program. Probiotic-rich meals like yogurt might help keep a wholesome intestine microbiome, which performs an important function in general immune perform.
• Appropriate clothes: Wearing appropriate clothes is significant to guard towards dampness and humidity. It is advisable to put on closed sneakers and long-sleeved clothes to guard towards waterborne infections and skin-related points.
• Medications: Elderly people with persistent well being situations should adhere to their prescribed drugs and remedy plans. Regular monitoring of important parameters reminiscent of blood strain, blood sugar, and medicine adherence is essential to stopping problems.
• Exercise and health: Engaging in gentle indoor workout routines might help seniors keep bodily lively even throughout the monsoon season. Exercise boosts circulation, strengthens the immune system, and contributes to general well-being.
• Tech enabled care: Being conscious of potential dangers and taking essential precautions can considerably cut back the probability of falling sick. Technology can even present the much-needed assist to the aged by providing comfort and security, enabling them to seek the advice of healthcare professionals from the consolation of their houses. Health apps, residence healthcare providers provide a tangible means for seniors to actively interact of their well being administration, offering instruments for monitoring important indicators, adhering to remedy schedules and accessing dependable health-related info at their doorstep.