Rainy Season Health Risks Surge in Surabaya: Flu, Typhoid, and More
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Surabaya, Indonesia is experiencing unpredictable weather patterns, with scorching days giving way to sudden downpours. This volatile climate has led to a meaningful increase in common illnesses, prompting health officials to issue warnings to residents.
Dr. Detti Nur Irawati SpD, a lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, Muhammadiyah University of Surabaya, highlighted several prevalent health concerns. “For the rainy season,” she explained, “the most obvious thing is the flu.The unpredictable hot and cold weather causes a drop in immunity, making it easier for respiratory tract infections, or ISPA, and the flu to take hold.” This statement was made on December 17, 2024.
Beyond the flu, Dr. Irawati noted a rise in other illnesses. Diarrhea is another common complaint, often linked to fluctuating temperatures and poor food hygiene. “One of the factors is often snacking carelessly,” she said, “rainy weather, unclean conditions, or excessive heat, and lots of dust all contribute.”
Typhoid Fever and Other Concerns
typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella bacteria, is also on the rise. Dr. Irawati explained, “If your diet is not clean, the transmission is through unclean food hygiene, frequent snacks, or indeed the place where you snack is not clean. This causes germs to come back to life, resulting in lots of typhoid.” The bacteria, she emphasized, are difficult to eliminate and often reside in the digestive tract.
Sore throats, often a precursor to ISPA, are also more prevalent.”Summer heat can lead to viral infections,” Dr. Irawati noted, “it can cause flu, ARI, sore throat, depending on the immune system of each patient.” while dengue fever (DHF) is also a concern, its incidence is less pronounced than other illnesses during this rainy season.
The increase in these illnesses underscores the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices, including thorough handwashing, careful food preparation, and avoiding exposure to stagnant water where mosquitoes breed. The unpredictable weather patterns in surabaya serve as a stark reminder of the importance of proactive health measures during the rainy season.
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Surabaya’s Rainy Season Health Risks: an Interview with Dr. Anika Kartikasari
Eleanor Wright: Welcome back to Health Watch,viewers. Today we’re discussing the rise in seasonal health risks in surabaya, Indonesia. To help us understand the situation, we have Dr. Anika Kartikasari, a leading infectious disease specialist with experience in Southeast Asian climates.
Dr.Kartikasari, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Anika Kartikasari: It’s a pleasure to be here, Eleanor.
Eleanor Wright: Recent reports indicate a surge in illnesses like flu, typhoid, and diarrhea in Surabaya. Can you shed some light on why these conditions are notably prevalent during the rainy season?
Dr. Anika Kartikasari: Absolutely. Surabaya, like many tropical cities, experiences dramatic shifts in weather during the rainy season. These fluctuating temperatures and often humid conditions can weaken the immune system, making people more susceptible to infections. Additionally,the rains often lead to stagnant water,which is a breeding ground for disease-carrying mosquitoes and can contaminate food and water sources.
Eleanor Wright: The article mentions typhoid fever specifically. Could you explain how this illness spreads and how concerned should people be?
Dr. Anika Kartikasari: Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection spread primarily thru contaminated food and water. Its often linked to poor hygiene practices, particularly in food planning and handling. While it can be a serious illness, it is treatable with antibiotics. People should be cautious about their food and water sources, especially during the rainy season, and practise thorough handwashing.
Eleanor Wright: Aside from typhoid, what are some other common health concerns during this time?
Dr. Anika kartikasari: Respiratory infections like the flu and influenza-like illnesses (ILI) are very common during the rainy season [1] due to the weakened immune system and close contact in crowded indoor spaces when people seek shelter from the rain. Also, diarrhea is prevalent due to the contaminated food and water mentioned earlier [1] .
Eleanor Wright: What steps can people take to stay healthy during this time?
Dr. Anika Kartikasari: There are several vital precautions. First and foremost,maintain good hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap and water,especially before eating and after using the bathroom. Be careful about the food and water you consume only eat from trusted vendors and ensure water is boiled or purified before drinking. If possible, avoid crowded places and, if you get sick, stay home to prevent spreading the infection. Get vaccinated against the flu, and consult a doctor if you experience any severe symptoms.
Eleanor Wright: ** thank you, Dr. Kartikasari, for these insightful tips. This is valuable facts for our viewers in Surabaya and beyond.
