Common illnesses and how to prevent them.
September 2026 · Internal Medicine
Mysuru's rains bring welcome relief from the heat, but they also change what walks through our OPD doors. Every year from June through September, we see a fairly predictable pattern of illness in and around Vijayanagar — and most of it is preventable with a few consistent habits at home.
Viral fevers and the common cold. Sudden temperature swings between rain-cooled mornings and humid afternoons are hard on the immune system, especially in children and older adults. Most of these resolve with rest, fluids, and symptomatic care, but a fever that persists beyond 3 days deserves a check-up rather than self-medication.
Waterborne infections. Typhoid and gastroenteritis cases rise when drinking water sources get contaminated by runoff. Boiling or filtering water, and being cautious with street food and cut fruit during this season, meaningfully lowers the risk.
Mosquito-borne illness. Stagnant water after rain is a breeding ground for the mosquitoes that carry dengue and chikungunya. A sudden high fever with body aches, joint pain, or a rash — especially if more than one person in the household is affected — should be evaluated promptly.
Respiratory flare-ups. Patients with asthma or COPD often notice their symptoms worsening in humid, mould-prone conditions. Keeping inhalers on hand and indoor spaces well-ventilated helps.
Empty out any standing water around the house at least once a week — flowerpots, coolers, and open containers are the usual culprits. Drink boiled or filtered water, and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Keep hand hygiene consistent, particularly before meals. And don't wait out a fever that comes with warning signs like persistent vomiting, breathing difficulty, or unusual drowsiness — that's when it's time to come in rather than watch and wait.
A short visit early on is almost always easier to manage than a complication later. If you're unsure whether something needs attention, our Internal Medicine and Paediatrics teams are available for consultation, and our Emergency department is open 24/7 for anything urgent.