It’s the Rainy Season! Watch out for these Diseases and Pursue Defense

The sound of rain is both refreshing and rejuvenating after the harsh summer heat. In the Philippines, we experienced new record heat waves soaring up to 53 degrees, and so the arrival of rain brings relief. However, along with its advantages, the rainy season also presents challenges. 

According to PAGASA’s official statement, the rain has begun, starting in June and lasting until November, with the looming La Nina phenomenon. So, beyond cooler temperatures, the rainy season also brings with it the risk of seasonal diseases that you should be mindful of and today, we’ll shed some light on these diseases to watch out for and pursue defense. 

The rainy season provides much-needed relief from the summer heat as earlier stated but it also creates an environment conducive to the spread of various diseases. Studies by the World Health Organization (WHO)  show a significant increase in respiratory tract infections, waterborne diseases, and mosquito-borne illnesses during this period.

Let’s further break it down. Now, the damp air creates an ideal environment for viruses like the common cold and flu to flourish. So, staying indoors with closed windows due to incessant rainfall can lead to poor ventilation, further increasing the risk of airborne transmission all of which negatively impact the respiratory tract. 

Secondly, heavy rains can overwhelm the sewage system as we often experience here in the Philippines. This leads to contaminated water supplies which can cause diarrhea, typhoid fever and cholera. 

Next, heavy rains create stagnant water which then become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of diseases like dengue fever, malaria and so on. 

Now, while the above-mentioned illnesses are commonly associated with the rainy season, there are other health concerns that deserve attention. First of which is, Mental health - Shorter days and lack of sunshine often negatively impact our mood, leading to symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Next, the increased humidity can worsen skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis and so, atmospheric dampness can contribute to joint pain in individuals with arthritis. 

Moving on, now that we’ve discussed diseases that you might be at risk of contracting this rainy season, let’s now arm ourselves with wellness habits to adopt this rainy season in order to pursue defense. 

 

• Maintain and Prioritize Personal Hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap and water is crucial to prevent the spread of germs, especially after using public transportation or being in crowded spaces.

• Boost Your Immunity: A strong immune system is your body's best defense against illness. Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to ensure you're getting the essential vitamins and minerals needed for your optimal immune function. In addition, consider incorporating Herbs of the Earth’s high-quality immune-supporting supplements like Graviola and Cranberry into your routine. They can help fortify your immunity.

 

Avoid Street Food: Street food can be contaminated with harmful bacteria during the rainy season. So, stick to home-cooked meals as much as possible.

Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. Make a conscious effort to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.

Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Sleep deprivation can significantly impair your immune system's ability to fight off infections. Herbs of the Earth’s Melatonin can help you fight off sleep deprivation and afford you the much needed hours of sleep for optimal health.

• Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise boosts your immunity, manages stress levels and keeps you fit. Indoor exercises can be a good option during the rainy season. 

As we wrap up, the rainy season, while beautiful, can be tough on our health. But with the right habits and tools from Herbs of the Earth, we can navigate this season with ease and good health. After all, wellness isn’t a destination but a journey, and every step we take towards it counts.

So, as the rain pours down, ask yourself: Are you ready to PURSUE DEFENSE and make this rainy season a healthy one?