Follow these expert tips to prevent vector-borne diseases this monsoon

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 80 per cent of the population globally is at risk of contracting one or more vector-borne diseases. These infections, caused by parasites, bacteria or viruses, account for 17 per cent of all infectious diseases, causing more than 7 lakh deaths annually.

While vector-borne diseases can strike any time of the year, the risk of contracting some of these infections such as dengue, malaria and chikungunya, increases during the monsoon season.

A recent report by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) revealed a rise in monsoon-related diseases in the first half of June 2025, compared to the same period last year. While 341 malaria cases were registered in the city from 1-14 June this year –as compared to 443 cases in June 2024–the number of dengue cases was 48 as compared to 93 cases in June 2024.

Explaining why vector-borne diseases spike during the monsoon months, Dr Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine at Gleneagles Hospital in Parel, says, “This is mainly because of stagnant water from rain, which acts as an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. Humid conditions also support the survival of vectors such as mosquitoes and flies, increasing the risk of diseases vector-borne diseases.”

One should especially be careful about common monsoon-related infections such as dengue, malaria, chikungunya, leptospirosis and Japanese encephalitis. “These are mainly transmitted through mosquito or rodent bites and can cause serious health complications if not addressed promptly,” states Dr Amit Saraf, Director – Internal Medicine at Jupiter Hospital in Thane.

Signs and symptoms to watch out for

Diseases such as dengue and malaria sometimes present similar symptoms, making it difficult to identify and seek timely medical help. The experts highlight the following signs and symptoms that are specific to each disease and can help in differentiation:

Dengue: High fever, severe headache, joint pain, skin rashes and low platelet count

Malaria: Fever with chills, sweating, nausea and vomiting

Chikungunya: Sudden fever, intense joint pain, swelling and rash

“While all these diseases cause fever, joint pain is worse in chikungunya, rash is common in dengue, and chills in malaria,” clarifies Dr Agarwal.

The symptoms of vector-borne diseases often overlap, making it essential to seek professional medical help as clinical tests can differentiate and confirm the diagnosis.

Who is most at risk?

While everyone should watch out for vector-borne diseases and take conscious steps to prevent them, certain groups are more at risk and should be more vigilant, say experts.

“Children, the elderly, pregnant women and individuals with weakened immunity are most vulnerable. Although gender isn`t a significant factor, age and existing health conditions do influence the risk and severity of infection due to a lower immune response,” says Dr Saraf.

If not diagnosed and treated on time, vector-borne diseases can turn severe. Dr Agarwal elaborates, “These can lead to complications such as bleeding (dengue), organ failure (malaria), or chronic joint pain (chikungunya).”

Additionally, she highlights that with a rise in Covid-19 cases, the risk of co-infections may increase, worsening symptoms and delaying diagnosis.

Prevention steps

Given the potential severity of the situation, one should take steps to prevent these infections. The health experts share the following tips:

1. Avoid going near stagnant water, and ensure there’s no water stagnation near your house.

2. Use mosquito repellent and mosquito nets.

3. Wear protective clothing.

Civic authorities should also take steps to reduce risk factors that can cause vector-borne diseases. “Authorities should intensify fogging, clean drains, eliminate breeding spots, and increase public awareness to reduce the mosquito population and prevent outbreaks,” states Dr Saraf.

Nutrition for building immunity and preventing infections

Besides the steps mentioned above, food and nutrition play an important role in not only preventing infections but also building overall immunity.

Fauziya Ansari, dietician at Apollo Spectra Hospital in Mumbai, says, “Given the surge in vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria, it is imperative for everyone to eat a well-balanced diet. The focus should be on foods that will help boost immunity.”

Immunity-boosting foods have several benefits. Highlighting the same, Jinal Patel, dietician at Zynova Shalby Hospital in Mumbai, states, “A strong immune system plays a critical role in preventing and recovering from vector-borne diseases. Eating the right foods can help reduce inflammation, boost platelet production, help stay energetic and aid in faster recovery.”

The two nutrition experts share 10 tips to curate a balanced diet that includes immunity-boosting components:

1. Choose foods that are jam-packed with Vitamin A, zinc and antioxidants. Try to eat colourful vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin and sweet potatoes which support cell repair.

2. Add Vitamin C-rich fruits such as oranges, amla, lemon and guava to your diet. These foods help to tackle infections and reduce inflammation in the body.

3. Adding turmeric to vegetables, curries or even milk can enhance immunity as it is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Include garlic and ginger in meals as they have natural anti-viral properties and boost immunity.

5. Don’t forget to have green leafy vegetables such as spinach and methi which contain iron and folate, aiding in strengthening blood cells.

6. Protein-rich foods such as dal, eggs, curd and nuts should be eaten daily to repair body tissues and stay energised.

7. Sprouted moong, seeds and seasonal fruits like papaya and pomegranate help in faster recovery.

8. Try to drink warm fluids such as herbal teas or soups to stay hydrated and eliminate toxins.

9. Avoid street food and wash fruits thoroughly to reduce the risk of infections during the rainy season.

10. Eat at regular intervals and avoid heavy meals.

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