The monsoon season’s fluctuating humidity levels, along with contaminated food, water, and environmental changes, have assured conducive conditions for various pathogens. “This has resulted in a notable increase in stomach infections, fevers, and vector-borne diseases like hepatitis A and E,” medical professionals have noted, warning potential serious health risks if overlooked. Furthermore, health experts have highlighted another concern: Individuals who have previously had Covid-19 may experience compromised immunity. This makes them more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infections during this susceptible period.
While attributing multiple reasons for the rise in stomach infections and fever cases during this season, Dr Ajaya Kumar, Director, Medical Services at Lucknow-based Apollomedics Hospital said “Covid-19 has left its lingering effect on its survivors by compromising their immune system, leading to ‘immunomodulation’.
“Because of low immunity caused by the Covid-19, the Sars Cov 2 virus survivors are catching infection more easily.” He cited research in this context. According to a study, patients who have had Covid-19 are more likely to experience digestive symptoms like constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
The doctors advised not to ignore fever and stomach infections as they may also signal more severe underlying medical conditions.
Said Dr Neha Rastogi Panda, infectious diseases expert at Fortis Hospital, Gurugram, “With monsoon season around, we are seeing a surge in stomach infections and fever, mostly due to contaminated food and humidity in the atmosphere.”
She noted that the overlap of symptoms in diseases like typhoid, hepatitis A, flu, and leptospirosis is making diagnosis challenging. Leptospirosis, caused by bacteria spread through urine (pee) of infected animals. Leptospirosis risk often increases after waterlogging or flood when people have contact with contaminated water or soil.
Talking about leptospirosis, she cited a case of a 30 year-old male whose BP had dipped to a dangerously low level and had fever for 8-9 days. His creatinine level was also high and had to be admitted in the ICU. Fortunately, he is fine now, she said.
Dr. Sharad Malhotra, Senior Consultant at Delhi-based Aakash Healthcare highlighted the surge in gastrointestinal infections and fever due to climatic changes induced erratic weather, contaminated food, and water.
“Prolonged humidity is also taking a toll on the health of the immunocompromised individuals. “ Dr Jugal Kishore, Director Professor and Former Head of Department at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, emphasised the risks associated with contaminated water and food during monsoon.
He explained how humidity and erratic weather has created ideal conditions for bacteria, viruses, and fungi to proliferate in food and water. Flooding and overflowing drains can exacerbate contamination of fresh water supplies, he said. About preventive measures, he suggested having lots of fluids, including homemade ORS or market-purchased WHO recommended solutions, to stay hydrated.
“Of course, maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation to prevent infections is a key. Avoid consuming street food or any food that has been left out in the heat for too long. Also, ensure food is thoroughly cooked,” he said.
“If we ignore and leave ourselves dehydrated, these symptoms can extend the span of the illness and enter other organs,” said Dr Jugal Kishore.
He too referenced research indicating that Covid-19 has influenced the immune system, potentially affecting its ability to respond to infections effectively. “As a result, it’s crucial for individuals to take preventive measures such as maintaining hygiene, ensuring food and water safety, and seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms develop or worsen,” he added.
Dr Ajaya Kumar was also of the view that “the easy availability of over-the-counter drugs has led to the development of antibiotic resistance, causing several infections to become more severe and harder to treat.” Dr Jugal Kishore too agreed as he pointed out that many times excess antibiotics are more likely to get fungal infections because of disruption to the immune system in the gut.
Experts have also observed how patients who have had Covid-19 are more likely to experience digestive symptoms like constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Dr Kishore drew attention to a recent study published in the British Medical Journal which said, Covid-19 can also cause stomach and gastrointestinal issues such as lack of appetite, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The journal stated that around 50% of people experience some of these symptoms after an infection, he said.
Yet another study from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine found a connection between COVID-19 and gastrointestinal symptoms. Dr. William Tierney, who led the study, said there is “clear evidence” linking the two. “COVID could be the trigger for a patient’s long-term digestive symptoms,” Tierney said.
