When it comes to getting sick, we often associate nasal congestion, cough and fever with the colder months of the year. The seasonal flu, after all, thrives in winter, when people tend to gather together indoors. However, illnesses don’t take a summer holiday. While the flu may retreat during the warm months, other culprits emerge to challenge our immune systems, from foodborne illnesses to pesky allergies. So, what’s really making you sick in the summer? Let’s explore some common causes and how to stay healthy.
Seasonal Flu vs Summer Illnesses
The seasonal flu, caused by influenza viruses is transmitted more easily in low humidity and cooler temperatures, as well as with close social contact. It therefore spreads more easily during the colder months and significantly declines in summer.
However, just because the flu is less common doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Summer brings its own set of health challenges that can leave you feeling under the weather. These illnesses may not always mimic the flu but they can still cause fatigue, stomach upset and other unpleasant symptoms.
What’s Really Making You Sick in the Summer?
- Foodborne Illnesses
Summer is synonymous with barbecues, picnics and outdoor gatherings, which can be a breeding ground for foodborne illnesses. Bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli and Listeria thrive in warm, moist conditions, and improperly handled or undercooked food can quickly become a health hazard.
Common culprits include undercooked meats, improperly stored mayonnaise-based salads, and unwashed fruits and vegetables. To prevent these issues, it is essential to cook meat to the appropriate internal temperature, store perishable items in a cooler with ice packs, and wash hands and surfaces thoroughly when preparing food. - Heat-Related Illnesses
The sweltering summer heat can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke if you’re not careful. Spending long hours outdoors without adequate hydration or shade can quickly take a toll on your body. You can help prevent these hazards by drinking plenty of water, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours and wearing lightweight, breathable clothing. - Summer Allergies
For those prone to allergies, summer can be a challenging time. While spring heralds increasing levels of tree pollen, summer brings its own allergens, such as grass and weed pollen. Additionally, mould spores can increase due to the humid conditions. We advise monitoring pollen counts, keeping windows closed during peak times and considering use of antihistamines or nasal sprays (if compatible with any other medication you are using and provided use is not contra-indicated for any pre-existing health conditions). - Recreational Water Illnesses
A refreshing dip in a pool, lake or ocean may be a quintessential summer activity, but it is not without its risks. Contaminated water can expose swimmers to bacteria, viruses or parasites, which can lead to a range of illnesses. Common issues include diarrhoea, ear infections and skin rashes, all of which can quickly put a damper on summer fun.
To minimise these risks, it is important to take preventive measures. Avoid swallowing pool or lake water, as this is a common way harmful microorganisms are ingested. Cover any skin breaks with waterproof dressings. Showering both before and after swimming can help reduce the spread of germs, and it is essential to ensure that pools are properly chlorinated and well-maintained to keep waterborne pathogens at bay. - Insect-Borne Diseases
Summer is prime time for mosquitoes, ticks and other biting insects, which can quickly turn outdoor adventures into health risks. These pests can carry serious diseases such as Lyme disease, and bites can result in skin infections.
Using insect repellent is a simple yet effective way to deter bites. Wearing long sleeves and trousers can provide an added layer of protection, particularly when spending time in wooded or grassy areas. Additionally, make it a habit to check for ticks after outdoor activities, as early removal using proper technique (https://www.lymediseaseaction.org.uk/about-ticks/tick-removal/) can significantly reduce the risk of tick-borne illnesses.
How to Stay Healthy This Summer
To protect yourself from summer illnesses, taking a proactive approach to your health is essential. Keep the following general tips in mind:
- Stay hydrated: Carry a water bottle with you and drink regularly.
- Practice food safety: Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold, and discard anything left out at room temperature for more than two hours.
- Protect your skin: Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30, wear sunglasses, and seek shade to prevent sunburn and heat-related illnesses.
- Stay informed: Pay attention to weather and allergy forecasts and plan your activities accordingly.
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