Rainy season: Common diseases and how to stay protected

CEBU CITY, Philippines — With the rainy season now officially underway, health authorities are reminding the public to take extra precautions against diseases that commonly increase during prolonged rains, flooding, and changing weather conditions.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) officially declared the onset of the rainy season after observing frequent southwest monsoon, or habagat, rains over the western sections of Luzon and the Visayas.

Common rainy season diseases

Health authorities said dengue, leptospirosis, diarrhea, cholera, typhoid fever, and respiratory illnesses are among the diseases most commonly reported during the rainy season.

According to the Department of Health (DOH), stagnant water left by frequent rains creates ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes that carry dengue.

READ: Rainy season in Cebu: Safety tips every household should know

To reduce the risk of infection, the agency continues to encourage the public to regularly clean their surroundings and eliminate standing water where mosquitoes may breed.

The DOH also warned against leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be acquired when floodwater contaminated with the urine of infected animals enters the body through cuts, abrasions, or open wounds.

Meanwhile, food- and water-borne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever become more common during the rainy season because of the increased risk of contaminated food and drinking water.

How to stay protected

Health experts advise residents to avoid unnecessary exposure to floodwaters whenever possible.

They said people who need to go outside during heavy rains or flooding should wear appropriate rain gear and boots to reduce the risk of exposure to contaminated water.

Health authorities also expect an increase not only in leptospirosis cases but also in cases of diarrhea, coughs and colds, and dengue during the rainy months.

READ: Cebu to begin week with fair weather, isolated rains

To help reduce the risk of illness, the public is encouraged to keep their surroundings clean to prevent mosquito breeding, avoid eating food from questionable sources, and drink only safe water. Water obtained from unsafe or uncertain sources should be boiled before drinking.

The public is likewise advised to maintain a healthy diet and, when appropriate, take vitamins or other supplements to help support the immune system during periods of changing weather.

Precautionary measures

Health authorities recommend that the public:

Eliminate stagnant water around homes and communities to prevent mosquito breeding.

Avoid wading through floodwaters, especially if there are cuts or open wounds.

Wear boots or other protective footwear if walking through flooded areas is unavoidable.

Wash hands regularly and practice proper food handling.

Drink clean or boiled water, particularly if the source is uncertain.

Avoid consuming food that may have been exposed to floodwater or prepared under unsanitary conditions.

Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as persistent fever, severe diarrhea, vomiting, jaundice, rashes, or muscle pain develop after exposure to floodwater or during the rainy season.

As the rainy season progresses, weather and health authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, eliminate mosquito breeding sites, and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of illnesses commonly associated with prolonged rains and flooding.

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