4 monsoon myths you need to stop believing

The monsoon offers much-needed relief from scorching summer temperatures, but it also creates conditions that allow infections to thrive. Heavy rainfall, waterlogged streets, rising humidity and fluctuating temperatures increase the risk of illnesses affecting the respiratory and digestive systems, along with overall health.

Despite this, several misconceptions continue to influence how people respond to common monsoon-related health concerns. According to Dr Neeraj Kumar, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, ShardaCare-Healthcity, understanding the facts behind these myths is key to preventing avoidable illnesses and seeking timely treatment.

Myth 1: If you get wet in the rain, you'll definitely fall sick

Many people believe that simply getting drenched in the rain inevitably leads to illness. However, Dr Kumar explains that this is not entirely true.

"Rain itself does not carry the viruses responsible for the common cold or influenza. However, prolonged exposure to wet clothing and lower body temperatures can place stress on the body, making an individual more susceptible to viruses that are already circulating in the environment," he says.

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According to Dr Kumar, this is particularly important for older adults, young children, people living with diabetes and those with weakened immunity.

"Simple measures such as drying yourself thoroughly, changing into dry clothes and keeping warm after getting wet can significantly reduce the risk of falling ill," he advises.

Myth 2: Monsoon stomach problems are caused by spicy food

Digestive illnesses often increase during the rainy season, leading many to blame spicy food. While spicy meals may trigger acidity or indigestion in some people, they are rarely the main cause of seasonal stomach infections.

"The real concern during the monsoon is contamination of food and drinking water," says Dr Kumar. "The season creates favourable conditions for bacterial, viral and parasitic organisms, which can cause gastrointestinal infections."

He notes that contaminated food and water can lead to illnesses such as diarrhoea, vomiting, typhoid, hepatitis A and food poisoning.

"People should eat freshly prepared food, drink filtered or boiled water, and maintain good hand hygiene, especially before meals. These simple precautions can greatly reduce the risk of infection," he adds.

Myth 3: A fever during the monsoon is normal and will go away on its own

A fever during the rainy season should never be dismissed as routine, warns Dr Kumar.

"Monsoon fever may be an early symptom of infections such as dengue, malaria, leptospirosis or typhoid. Assuming that it will settle on its own can delay diagnosis and treatment," he explains.

Dr Kumar advises people to monitor their symptoms carefully.

"A fever that persists for more than two to three days or repeatedly returns despite medication requires medical evaluation. If it is accompanied by severe body aches, vomiting, unusual fatigue, bleeding or reduced urine output, medical attention should not be delayed," he says.

He emphasises that "early diagnosis not only prevents complications but also improves recovery and treatment outcomes."

Myth 4: Taking antibiotics early helps you recover faster

One of the most common misconceptions during the monsoon is the belief that antibiotics should be taken at the first sign of illness.

"Most seasonal respiratory infections are caused by viruses, and antibiotics have no effect against viral infections," Dr Kumar explains.

He warns that unnecessary antibiotic use contributes to antimicrobial resistance.

"When antibiotics are taken without medical indication, bacteria gradually become resistant to these medicines. As a result, bacterial infections become increasingly difficult to treat in the future," he says.

Dr Kumar stresses that antibiotics should only be taken when prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional.

Staying healthy this monsoon starts with the right information

While not every monsoon-related illness can be prevented, many are avoidable with simple, consistent precautions.

"Eating freshly prepared food, drinking safe water, protecting yourself against mosquito bites, getting adequate sleep and seeking timely medical advice for persistent symptoms can significantly reduce your risk of seasonal illnesses," says Dr Kumar.

He concludes with an important reminder: "One of the most effective ways to stay healthy during the monsoon is to separate myths from facts. A little awareness today can help prevent serious health complications tomorrow."