Story by Raksha Bhattacharjee
These risk factors, which range from inadequate sanitation to standing water that serves as a mosquito breeding ground, can cause malaria to spread.
A number of diseases, particularly those spread by mosquitoes like dengue and malaria, can thrive in the summer months and during periods of precipitation. According to Dr. Tushar Tayal, internal medicine consultant at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram, who spoke to HT Lifestyle, “The season brings climatic and environmental conditions that favor the spread of Anopheles mosquitoes, the primary vectors of the disease.” The increased risk of malaria at this period is caused by a number of reasons.
Water that stagnates
Water collects in puddles, abandoned containers, and open drains due to summer rains and inadequate drainage systems in both urban and rural regions, which makes these places perfect for mosquito breeding.
Bad hygiene and sanitation
Additionally, poor hygiene and sanitation are quite important. Malaria transmission is more likely in many low-income communities due to open sewage and poor waste management, which draw mosquito populations.
The heat of summer
Summertime high temperatures hasten the life cycle of mosquitoes and the parasite that causes malaria in them. This implies that mosquitoes spread disease more rapidly and in larger quantities, which raises the number of patients.
Activities outside during the summer
In hot weather, people are more likely to get bitten by mosquitoes while they are outside and wearing shorts. The hours when mosquitoes are most active are early in the morning and late at night, when people are most likely to be outside.
Failure to take preventative action
Another aspect is the underutilization of preventive methods including indoor spraying, mosquito nets, and repellents, especially in financially deprived communities where availability and awareness may be low.
Treatment and diagnostic delays
In certain areas, inadequate health infrastructure causes delays in diagnosis and treatment, which permits the disease to spread unchecked. To stay safe, you must be aware of the early warning symptoms and adopt the appropriate safety measures.
Effective summertime malaria control requires the implementation of comprehensive programs that prioritize public awareness, prevention, and enhanced access to healthcare services, Dr. Tushar Tayal continued.
