Kerala sees a rising threat of infectious diseases with the onset of the monsoon.

Understanding Shigella, Nipah, and West Nile during the rainy season.

Kerala’s monsoon, while vital for agriculture and water supply, also creates conditions that favor the spread of infectious diseases. Heavy rains, flooding, and stagnant water often lead to contamination and mosquito breeding, making communities vulnerable to outbreaks. This year, health authorities are grappling with three major concerns: Shigella infections, Nipah virus clusters, and West Nile fever cases.

Shigella: A Fast-Spreading Gut Infection

Shigella is a bacterial illness that spreads through contaminated food, water, or poor hygiene. Even a small dose of the bacteria can cause severe illness, making it highly contagious. Symptoms include diarrhea (sometimes bloody), stomach cramps, fever, and nausea. Any case of bloody diarrhea should be treated as a medical emergency.

Nipah Virus: Rare but Deadly

Kerala has faced repeated Nipah outbreaks since 2018, with fruit bats identified as the natural carriers. The virus can spread to humans through contaminated fruit, infected animals, or close contact with patients. Early symptoms resemble common viral fevers—headache, fatigue, and body aches—but can quickly escalate to breathing difficulties or brain inflammation. With fatality rates ranging from 40% to 75%, early detection and isolation are critical to preventing further spread.

West Nile Fever: The Mosquito-Borne Risk

Unlike Shigella and Nipah, West Nile virus is transmitted through mosquito bites. Most infected individuals show no symptoms, but some develop fever, rash, headache, and fatigue. Preventing mosquito bites remains the most effective safeguard.

Protecting Families During Monsoon

Despite differences in transmission, preventive measures overlap. Doctors recommend:

• Washing hands regularly with soap and water.
• Drinking boiled or treated water.
• Eating freshly prepared food and keeping it covered.
• Use mosquito repellents and protective clothing.
• Seek medical help promptly for fever, diarrhea, or neurological symptoms.