• Published on: Apr 04, 2020
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Dr Rajan Choudhary

COVID-19 LOCKDOWN !

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As the cases continue to increase worldwide more and more countries have begun to take drastic measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In some places it is clear containment is no longer achievable, as too many people have become infected and the natural exponential increase in number of cases is inevitable. Now the focus switches to damage mitigation.

We first saw this in Wuhan, with city wide quarantine measures. Then Italy enacted similar measures, now extending across the country with all non-essential services and businesses closed for the foreseeable future. The Italian health service has become strained with the rising patient load, with reports of drastic measures taken in hospitals including conversion of operating theatres into intensive care bays. We have previously discussed the effect this has had on the Italian economy.

A NEW EPICENTRE

With Europe now seen as the “epicentre” of the pandemic, other countries have begun following suit. Spain is the second hardest hit country in Europe, with 6,000 infections and nearly 200 deaths. After a lengthy meeting of the government cabinet, the Spanish PM has enacted a partial lockdown of the country, with the use of armed forces on standby to assist. This includes closure of all shops except those selling food and basic necessities, reduction in medium-distance rail traffic to stem the spread of people around the country, and economic measures to support business workers.

France has also shut down all non-essential businesses, with food shops, chemists, banks and petrol stations remaining unaffected. The PM urged a reduction in travel amongst the population, and to enact “social distancing”. Germany has 3,800 cases but remarkably has only had 8 deaths so far. Berlin has banned all public and private events with more than 50 participants, with similar bans occurring in other cities across the countries.

So what do they hope to achieve with such measures? At first people were advised to take measures to wash hands, practice basic hygiene, self-quarantine if developing symptoms. But it became apparent this was not enough. Social distancing and lockdowns further reduce the spread of the virus by drastically reducing the number of people out in public, the number of interactions they can have. Schools and universities act as breeding grounds for infections, large congregations amongst which respiratory infections can spread like wildfire.

SHUT DOWN EVERYTHING

Lockdown also carries great political power. People respond well to drastic action, rather than soft recommendations to slightly change their daily habit with washing hands and increased hygiene. This is why masks have been so popular amongst the populous. It is decisive, it is visible. It is however NOT recommended by the WHO and most governments to wear as it is unnecessary unless around infected patients, and increased demands is straining supply for medical professionals and those who truly need it.

Similarly, Lockdown is a decisive action. It reassures the population that something is being done, that the government is taking the IT seriously. But it is not a cure to COVID. It is a plaster, a temporary stopping measure, one that cannot continue indefinitely. Shutting businesses can seriously affect the economy, affect people’s income and subsequently prevent them from paying off mortgages or loans. Forcing children to stay at home can affect their education, parents have to choose whether to work or look after their unsupervised kids.

It’s true that lockdown is now a necessity in some countries, and the lockdown of the Hubei province and parts of China was credited with significantly slowing down the spread of COVID. But it will not stop the viral spread completely. For this reason the UK has adopted an alternate strategy, one that we will discuss in our next blog.

Dr Rajan Choudhary, London UK

Head Of Products, Second Medic Inc

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Summer to Monsoon Transition Illnesses: Prevention & Care Tips

Summer to Monsoon Transition Illnesses: Prevention & Care Tips

As the scorching summer heat slowly gives way to the refreshing rains of the monsoon, many of us look forward to cooler days, greenery, and relief from the sun. But this seasonal shift also brings a rise in health issues. The combination of heat, humidity, and sudden downpours creates an environment where viruses, bacteria, and mosquitoes thrive.

In India, this transition period often leads to common but preventable illnesses. Understanding these health risks and taking timely precautions can help you and your family stay safe.

 

1. Flu & Viral Fevers

  • Why it happens: Weather fluctuations weaken immunity, making people more prone to viral infections.
     

  • Symptoms: High fever, sore throat, cough, body aches.
     

  • Prevention: Drink warm fluids, practice hand hygiene, avoid sudden temperature changes (like moving from AC to rain).
     

 

2. Stomach Infections & Food Poisoning

  • Why it happens: Contaminated food and water are common during monsoon due to bacterial growth.
     

  • Symptoms: Diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, dehydration.
     

  • Prevention: Eat freshly cooked meals, avoid raw roadside food, and drink only boiled/filtered water.
     

 

3. Dengue & Malaria

  • Why it happens: Stagnant rainwater is a breeding ground for mosquitoes carrying these diseases.
     

  • Symptoms:
     

    • Dengue: High fever, severe headache, joint pain, rash.
       

    • Malaria: Fever with chills, sweating, fatigue.
       

  • Prevention: Keep surroundings dry, use mosquito repellents, and sleep under nets.
     

 

4. Skin Allergies & Fungal Infections

  • Why it happens: Humidity and damp clothes encourage fungal growth.
     

  • Symptoms: Itching, redness, white patches, fungal rashes.
     

  • Prevention: Keep skin dry, wear breathable cotton clothes, and use antifungal powders if needed.
     

 

5. Respiratory Issues

  • Why it happens: Dampness increases mold growth, triggering allergies and asthma.
     

  • Symptoms: Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, sneezing.
     

  • Prevention: Keep rooms ventilated, clean damp corners, and use masks if allergic.
     

 

Boosting Immunity During Seasonal Change

  • Eat vitamin C-rich fruits (orange, lemon, amla).
     

  • Include turmeric, ginger, and garlic in meals.
     

  • Stay hydrated with clean water and herbal teas.
     

  • Get 7–8 hours of good quality sleep.
     

 

Lifestyle Tips to Stay Safe

  1. Wash hands frequently.
     

  2. Avoid walking in flooded water.
     

  3. Keep your home dry and pest-free.
     

  4. Exercise moderately to improve stamina.
     

 

Conclusion

The summer-to-monsoon transition illnesses may be common, but they are largely preventable. With timely care, hygiene, and lifestyle adjustments, you can enjoy the rains without falling sick. Always consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist.

Stay safe this season and protect your family from summer to monsoon transition illnesses with simple yet effective precautions.

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