Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Monsoon Health Alert: Common Waterborne Diseases You Need To Watch Out For This Rainy Season

Monsoon Health Alert: Waterborne Diseases You Need To Watch Out For This Rainy Season

As the monsoon season rages over portions of Asia, Africa, and tropical America, bringing relief from summer heat, it also opens the floodgates literally to a range of health issues. Foremost among them are waterborne diseases that peak during this time and constitute a major threat to public health, particularly in such nations as India where monsoon cycles are intense and clean water access infrastructure is patchy at best.

Waterborne infections that peak during monsoons, their symptoms, how they are spread, and above all, how to avoid them. If you live in a flood area or just want to ensure the well-being of your loved ones during the rains, this is your go-to monsoon health manual.

<h2>Link Between Monsoons and Waterborne Illnesses</h2>

Monsoons, which are characterized by heavy rains, tend to flood drainage systems, commingle sewage with fresh water, and cause water supply contamination. Poor sanitation, when coupled with high humidity, becomes a breeding ground for viruses, parasites, and bacteria. Drinking, bathing, or exposure to such polluted water transmits numerous diseases, the majority of which are associated with the gastrointestinal tract, liver, or skin.

Caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, cholera is an epidemic disease that is characterized by profuse watery diarrhea and dehydration. Left untreated, it is even lethal, especially for children and the elderly. Tainted drinking water is the major offender.

Use only purified water—ideally filtered through RO (reverse osmosis), UV, or multi-stage filtration systems. Boiling water before drinking is still one of the cheapest and best methods.

Dysentery, mistakenly referred to as stomach flu, is a severe bacterial infection due to Shigella or E. coli. It causes bloody diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and dehydration. Unhygienic food or water intake and poor sanitation are the leading causes.

Dysentery is still one of the foremost causes of death among children under the age of five in low-income countries.

Caused by Salmonella Typhi, typhoid fever is bacterial in nature and is transmitted by contaminated food and water. It has symptoms that include continuous high fever, weakness, constipation or diarrhea, and pain in the stomach.

Typhoid, according to WHO, infects 11–20 million people worldwide every year. It can be prevented by vaccination and drinking clean water.

This lesser known parasitic infection is caused by Giardia lamblia. When ingested, the parasite can live in the human intestine for years and cause bloating, gas, greasy stools, and heavy weight loss.

Giardia is prevalent even in industrialized countries with wilderness activity, swimming pools, or day care centers as potential sources.

Hepatitis A, which is an infection of the liver by a virus, is very infectious and transmitted through eating contaminated food and water. It presents itself with jaundice, weakness, nausea, and fever.

Vaccination is effective for several years. Safe food and water hygiene must be practiced.

Commonly referred to as the "stomach flu," viral gastroenteritis runs amok during monsoons. It infects the stomach and intestines, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Norovirus and rotavirus are common culprits.

Infants and children are particularly susceptible. Get them vaccinated and give them plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Skin is predisposed to fungal infections (such as athlete's foot or ringworm) and bacterial infections (such as impetigo) in monsoons due to high humidity and persistent dampness. Wet clothing or the use of dirty towels can make things worse.

Shower every day, wear loose cotton clothes, and dry the skin well, particularly in creases and folds.

Spread by contact with contaminated water through urine of animals, leptospirosis is contracted after wading through floodwater. It results in symptoms such as fever, muscle pains, and vomiting. Severe infection may cause kidney injury or meningitis.

Do not walk in standing water or puddles when it rains. Wearing waterproof shoes is advisable. Consult a doctor at the earliest sign of symptoms.

Induced by the Entamoeba histolytica parasite, amoebiasis is transmitted via contaminated food or water. It causes abdominal pain, loose stools, and tiredness. Although most of the time self-limiting, chronic infections can cause damage to the intestines.

Always eat food from clean sources, and wash vegetables thoroughly.

Although not waterborne, snake bites increase during the monsoon as snakes are washed out of their burrows into human settlements. The danger is particularly risked in rural and farm areas.

Avoid going barefoot through dense undergrowth or flooded fields. Wear long pants and boots.

<h2>How To Prevention Getting Sick in Monsoon?</h2>

<ul><li>Drink Boiled or Purified Water: This is the best method of destroying waterborne pathogens. Install reliable water purification systems and never drink unverified water.</li><li>Practice Strict Hand Hygiene: Wash hands always after using the bathroom and before eating or cooking. Handwashing with soap can cut diarrheal disease risk by as much as 48%, says The Lancet.</li><li>Keep Surroundings Clean: Drain standing water to avoid breeding mosquitoes (responsible for dengue and malaria), and wash your water storage vessels regularly.</li><li>Consume Fresh and Well-Cooked Food: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, use cooked meats, and avoid eating street food during rainy days.</li><li>Maintain Adequate Sanitation: Use well-built toilets and refrain from open defecation to minimize source water contamination.</li><li>Vaccinate Children: Make routine vaccinations current, particularly for hepatitis A, typhoid, and flu, which provide immunity against monsoon-borne illnesses.</li></ul>

While monsoons have the charm of rainy afternoons and emerald greenery surrounding them, they also bring with them grave health issues if measures aren't adopted. The aforementioned waterborne illnesses not only affect individual health but also weigh heavily on public health services worldwide.

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As the monsoon season rages over portions of Asia, Africa, and tropical America, bringing relief from summer heat, it also opens the floodgates literally to a range of health issues. Foremost among them are waterborne diseases that peak during this time and constitute a major threat to public health, particularly in such nations as India where monsoon cycles are intense and clean water access infrastructure is patchy at best.Waterborne infections that peak during monsoons, their symptoms, how they are spread, and above all, how to avoid them. If you live in a flood area or just want to ensure the well-being of your loved ones during the rains, this is your go-to monsoon health manual.Link Between Monsoons and Waterborne IllnessesMonsoons, which are characterized by heavy rains, tend to flood drainage systems, commingle sewage with fresh water, and cause water supply contamination. Poor sanitation, when coupled with high humidity, becomes a breeding ground for viruses, parasites, and bacteria. Drinking, bathing, or exposure to such polluted water transmits numerous diseases, the majority of which are associated with the gastrointestinal tract, liver, or skin.1. CholeraCaused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, cholera is an epidemic disease that is characterized by profuse watery diarrhea and dehydration. Left untreated, it is even lethal, especially for children and the elderly. Tainted drinking water is the major offender.Use only purified water—ideally filtered through RO (reverse osmosis), UV, or multi-stage filtration systems. Boiling water before drinking is still one of the cheapest and best methods.2. DysenteryDysentery, mistakenly referred to as stomach flu, is a severe bacterial infection due to Shigella or E. coli. It causes bloody diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and dehydration. Unhygienic food or water intake and poor sanitation are the leading causes.Dysentery is still one of the foremost causes of death among children under the age of five in low-income countries.3. TyphoidCaused by Salmonella Typhi, typhoid fever is bacterial in nature and is transmitted by contaminated food and water. It has symptoms that include continuous high fever, weakness, constipation or diarrhea, and pain in the stomach.Typhoid, according to WHO, infects 11–20 million people worldwide every year. It can be prevented by vaccination and drinking clean water.4. GiardiaThis lesser known parasitic infection is caused by Giardia lamblia. When ingested, the parasite can live in the human intestine for years and cause bloating, gas, greasy stools, and heavy weight loss.Giardia is prevalent even in industrialized countries with wilderness activity, swimming pools, or day care centers as potential sources.5. Hepatitis AHepatitis A, which is an infection of the liver by a virus, is very infectious and transmitted through eating contaminated food and water. It presents itself with jaundice, weakness, nausea, and fever.Vaccination is effective for several years. Safe food and water hygiene must be practiced.6. Viral GastroenteritisCommonly referred to as the "stomach flu," viral gastroenteritis runs amok during monsoons. It infects the stomach and intestines, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Norovirus and rotavirus are common culprits.Infants and children are particularly susceptible. Get them vaccinated and give them plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.7. Skin InfectionsSkin is predisposed to fungal infections (such as athlete's foot or ringworm) and bacterial infections (such as impetigo) in monsoons due to high humidity and persistent dampness. Wet clothing or the use of dirty towels can make things worse.Shower every day, wear loose cotton clothes, and dry the skin well, particularly in creases and folds.8. LeptospirosisSpread by contact with contaminated water through urine of animals, leptospirosis is contracted after wading through floodwater. It results in symptoms such as fever, muscle pains, and vomiting. Severe infection may cause kidney injury or meningitis.Do not walk in standing water or puddles when it rains. Wearing waterproof shoes is advisable. Consult a doctor at the earliest sign of symptoms.9. AmoebiasisInduced by the Entamoeba histolytica parasite, amoebiasis is transmitted via contaminated food or water. It causes abdominal pain, loose stools, and tiredness. Although most of the time self-limiting, chronic infections can cause damage to the intestines.Always eat food from clean sources, and wash vegetables thoroughly.10. Snake BitesAlthough not waterborne, snake bites increase during the monsoon as snakes are washed out of their burrows into human settlements. The danger is particularly risked in rural and farm areas.Avoid going barefoot through dense undergrowth or flooded fields. Wear long pants and boots.How To Prevention Getting Sick in Monsoon?Drink Boiled or Purified Water: This is the best method of destroying waterborne pathogens. Install reliable water purification systems and never drink unverified water.Practice Strict Hand Hygiene: Wash hands always after using the bathroom and before eating or cooking. Handwashing with soap can cut diarrheal disease risk by as much as 48%, says The Lancet.Keep Surroundings Clean: Drain standing water to avoid breeding mosquitoes (responsible for dengue and malaria), and wash your water storage vessels regularly.Consume Fresh and Well-Cooked Food: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, use cooked meats, and avoid eating street food during rainy days.Maintain Adequate Sanitation: Use well-built toilets and refrain from open defecation to minimize source water contamination.Vaccinate Children: Make routine vaccinations current, particularly for hepatitis A, typhoid, and flu, which provide immunity against monsoon-borne illnesses.While monsoons have the charm of rainy afternoons and emerald greenery surrounding them, they also bring with them grave health issues if measures aren't adopted. The aforementioned waterborne illnesses not only affect individual health but also weigh heavily on public health services worldwide.

monsoon health alert: common waterborne diseases you need to watch out for this rainy season

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<span>Sleep</span> hygiene is something we should all keep up with constantly. While you may think you can skimp on sleep, your body needs it to keep functioning properly. Not only does sleep help us make sure our body runs all its functions smoothly, but it also keeps a sleep debt. Losing an hour of sleep may not seem like much, but your body requires 4 hours more to make up for that lost hour of sleep. Understanding this, many people opt for afternoon naps that span a few hours to help them recover lost energy. However, these naps are also not all safe for your health, especially for older adults.

An afternoon nap might seem like a good idea for middle-aged and older adults, but these short rests could actually come with a significant cost. New research suggests that certain napping habits might increase the risk of an early death. These findings are expected to be presented at an upcoming meeting of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).

<h2>Napping Patterns and Early Death</h2>

Researchers explained that people who slept longer during the day, had irregular napping schedules, or napped more around midday and early afternoon faced a greater risk. This was true even when other health and lifestyle factors were considered. These findings challenge the popular idea of the "power nap."

For the study, researchers looked at information from over 86,500 people taking part in the UK Biobank, a long-term health research project. The sleep habits of these individuals were tracked for a week using wrist devices, and then researchers compared these habits to death records. On average, the participants were 63 years old when their napping was monitored.

Over an 11-year follow-up period, nearly 5,200 people in the study passed away. The results showed a higher risk of dying sooner for:

<ul><li>People who usually took longer naps during the day.</li><li>Those whose napping times changed often.</li><li>Individuals who napped between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.</li></ul>

This last point goes against current AASM guidelines, which suggest that adults limit themselves to "power naps" of no more than 20 to 30 minutes in the early afternoon. Researchers noted that naps longer than half an hour can actually make you feel groggy, canceling out any potential benefits.

<h2>What Does Healthy Sleep Look Like For Different Ages</h2>According to the Mayo Clinic, healthy sleeping patterns differ according to age. The recommendations give are, 

<strong>Infants (4 to 12 months):</strong> Aim for 12 to 16 hours within a 24-hour day, including naps.

<strong>Toddlers (1 to 2 years):</strong> They need 11 to 14 hours in 24 hours, including naps.

<strong>Preschoolers (3 to 5 years):</strong> Target 10 to 13 hours within a 24-hour period, including naps.

<strong>School-aged Children (6 to 12 years):</strong> 9 to 12 hours every 24 hours is ideal.

<strong>Teenagers (13 to 18 years): </strong>8 to 10 hours within a 24-hour period is recommended.

<strong>Adults:</strong> Most adults need 7 or more hours of sleep each night.

<h2>Other Factors Affecting Your Sleep Needs</h2>

Besides age, several other things can influence how much sleep you require,

It's vital not just how long you sleep, but how soundly. Frequent interruptions mean poor quality rest. Getting truly restful sleep is equally important as the total hours.

If you haven't been getting enough sleep lately, your body needs extra rest. You'll have to make up for lost sleep to feel refreshed and function well.

Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can make sleep difficult. Physical discomfort also contributes to poor sleep quality, leaving expectant mothers feeling less rested than usual.

While older adults need similar sleep amounts as younger adults, their sleep patterns change. They might sleep lighter, take longer to fall asleep, wake up more often, and have shorter sleep cycles at night.

Afternoon Nap and Middle-Age People

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Sleep hygiene is something we should all keep up with constantly. While you may think you can skimp on sleep, your body needs it to keep functioning properly. Not only does sleep help us make sure our body runs all its functions smoothly, but it also keeps a sleep debt. Losing an hour of sleep may not seem like much, but your body requires 4 hours more to make up for that lost hour of sleep. Understanding this, many people opt for afternoon naps that span a few hours to help them recover lost energy. However, these naps are also not all safe for your health, especially for older adults.An afternoon nap might seem like a good idea for middle-aged and older adults, but these short rests could actually come with a significant cost. New research suggests that certain napping habits might increase the risk of an early death. These findings are expected to be presented at an upcoming meeting of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).Napping Patterns and Early DeathResearchers explained that people who slept longer during the day, had irregular napping schedules, or napped more around midday and early afternoon faced a greater risk. This was true even when other health and lifestyle factors were considered. These findings challenge the popular idea of the "power nap."For the study, researchers looked at information from over 86,500 people taking part in the UK Biobank, a long-term health research project. The sleep habits of these individuals were tracked for a week using wrist devices, and then researchers compared these habits to death records. On average, the participants were 63 years old when their napping was monitored.What Did The Research Find?Over an 11-year follow-up period, nearly 5,200 people in the study passed away. The results showed a higher risk of dying sooner for:People who usually took longer naps during the day.Those whose napping times changed often.Individuals who napped between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.This last point goes against current AASM guidelines, which suggest that adults limit themselves to "power naps" of no more than 20 to 30 minutes in the early afternoon. Researchers noted that naps longer than half an hour can actually make you feel groggy, canceling out any potential benefits.What Does Healthy Sleep Look Like For Different AgesAccording to the Mayo Clinic, healthy sleeping patterns differ according to age. The recommendations give are, Infants (4 to 12 months): Aim for 12 to 16 hours within a 24-hour day, including naps.Toddlers (1 to 2 years): They need 11 to 14 hours in 24 hours, including naps.Preschoolers (3 to 5 years): Target 10 to 13 hours within a 24-hour period, including naps.School-aged Children (6 to 12 years): 9 to 12 hours every 24 hours is ideal.Teenagers (13 to 18 years): 8 to 10 hours within a 24-hour period is recommended.Adults: Most adults need 7 or more hours of sleep each night.Other Factors Affecting Your Sleep NeedsBesides age, several other things can influence how much sleep you require,Sleep QualityIt's vital not just how long you sleep, but how soundly. Frequent interruptions mean poor quality rest. Getting truly restful sleep is equally important as the total hours. Previous Sleep DebtIf you haven't been getting enough sleep lately, your body needs extra rest. You'll have to make up for lost sleep to feel refreshed and function well. PregnancyHormonal shifts during pregnancy can make sleep difficult. Physical discomfort also contributes to poor sleep quality, leaving expectant mothers feeling less rested than usual. AgingWhile older adults need similar sleep amounts as younger adults, their sleep patterns change. They might sleep lighter, take longer to fall asleep, wake up more often, and have shorter sleep cycles at night.

an afternoon nap could cost middle-age people years of their life

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While AIDS-related deaths have dropped to their lowest since 2004, the world is still battling against <span>HIV</span>. Amid all this, a United Nations statement highlights the serious global health issue that it has become. Despite the years of progress and scientific breakthroughs, the disease still claims one life every minute, and continues to the global toll of the epidemic. 

More than 30 million people across the world at this moment are receiving life saving antiretroviral treatment. As per the <span>UN</span> Under Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, this is a testament to the power of multilateral action. Speaking at the UN General Assembly’s review of the global <span>AIDS</span> response, she called it a “clear example of multilateral success.”

However behind these figures, is also a fragile system that Mohammed too stressed upon. "Global commitment is fading, funding is falling, and HIV services are being disrupted." This could undo years of hard work. The Health and Me has previously <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/trump-government-ends-program-for-hiv-vaccine-what-is-means-for-healthcare-article-151760169" data-type="tilCustomLink">reported </a>that the United States government also abrupted halted funding for a seminal mRNA-based HIV vaccine study, just days before its scheduled start in March 2025. 

Health and Me also <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/hiv-cases-could-jump-over-6-times-if-unaids-is-abruptly-stopped-by-us-article-151174819" data-type="tilCustomLink">reported </a>on the US' plan to freeze all foreign assistance, along with the UNAIDS, which could become a global threat for HIV cases. The UNAIDS takes up less than 1% of the overall US budget and since Trump's re-election, audits for cost-cutting and executive orders, especially in the healthcare sector has changed the shape of how aid worked before.

UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima noted that HIV infections have in fact decreased in the recent years. In 2023, 1.3 million new cases were recorded, which is a 60% decline since the virus peaked in 1995. However, with this abrupt cut off in funding, it has created a situation of "panic, fear and confusion" in many of the African countries which are hit hardest by AIDS.

“We cannot let short-term cuts destroy long-term progress,” Mohammed urged. She called for the funding crisis to be treated with urgency and seriousness. In many low- and middle-income countries, healthcare budgets are being squeezed by the burden of debt servicing. In sub-Saharan Africa, half of the countries spend more on debt payments than on healthcare.

To counter this imbalance, Mohammed advocated for debt relief, global tax reform, and stronger international collaboration. She also emphasized the need for national governments to show stronger leadership and invest in sustainable HIV financing models.

Beyond finances, Mohammed pointed to another major challenge: attacks on human rights. Marginalised groups—including LGBTQ+ individuals, sex workers, and people who use drugs—are often criminalised or face violence, hate speech, and stigma. Such punitive laws and attitudes only push people further away from testing, treatment, and prevention services.

“Protecting health means protecting human rights,” Mohammed stated, urging nations to remove discriminatory laws and support inclusive healthcare services. She also highlighted the role of community-led organizations, many of which are now facing defunding. These groups are often closest to at-risk populations and play a crucial role in delivering services, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

While the global community has made historic progress, the fight against AIDS is far from over. “The end of AIDS is not a mystery,” said Mohammed. “But success is not guaranteed.” She reiterated that with the right investments, policies, and leadership, eliminating AIDS by 2030 is still within reach—but only if the world “keeps up the fight.”

AIDS KILL ONE PERSON EVERY ONE MINUTE

health and wellness

AIDS

While AIDS-related deaths have dropped to their lowest since 2004, the world is still battling against HIV. Amid all this, a United Nations statement highlights the serious global health issue that it has become. Despite the years of progress and scientific breakthroughs, the disease still claims one life every minute, and continues to the global toll of the epidemic. More than 30 million people across the world at this moment are receiving life saving antiretroviral treatment. As per the UN Under Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, this is a testament to the power of multilateral action. Speaking at the UN General Assembly’s review of the global AIDS response, she called it a “clear example of multilateral success.”Impact of Funding CutsHowever behind these figures, is also a fragile system that Mohammed too stressed upon. "Global commitment is fading, funding is falling, and HIV services are being disrupted." This could undo years of hard work. The Health and Me has previously reported that the United States government also abrupted halted funding for a seminal mRNA-based HIV vaccine study, just days before its scheduled start in March 2025. Health and Me also reported on the US' plan to freeze all foreign assistance, along with the UNAIDS, which could become a global threat for HIV cases. The UNAIDS takes up less than 1% of the overall US budget and since Trump's re-election, audits for cost-cutting and executive orders, especially in the healthcare sector has changed the shape of how aid worked before.UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima noted that HIV infections have in fact decreased in the recent years. In 2023, 1.3 million new cases were recorded, which is a 60% decline since the virus peaked in 1995. However, with this abrupt cut off in funding, it has created a situation of "panic, fear and confusion" in many of the African countries which are hit hardest by AIDS.Urgent Need for Action“We cannot let short-term cuts destroy long-term progress,” Mohammed urged. She called for the funding crisis to be treated with urgency and seriousness. In many low- and middle-income countries, healthcare budgets are being squeezed by the burden of debt servicing. In sub-Saharan Africa, half of the countries spend more on debt payments than on healthcare.To counter this imbalance, Mohammed advocated for debt relief, global tax reform, and stronger international collaboration. She also emphasized the need for national governments to show stronger leadership and invest in sustainable HIV financing models.Human Rights Are Health RightsBeyond finances, Mohammed pointed to another major challenge: attacks on human rights. Marginalised groups—including LGBTQ+ individuals, sex workers, and people who use drugs—are often criminalised or face violence, hate speech, and stigma. Such punitive laws and attitudes only push people further away from testing, treatment, and prevention services.“Protecting health means protecting human rights,” Mohammed stated, urging nations to remove discriminatory laws and support inclusive healthcare services. She also highlighted the role of community-led organizations, many of which are now facing defunding. These groups are often closest to at-risk populations and play a crucial role in delivering services, especially in hard-to-reach areas.The Road AheadWhile the global community has made historic progress, the fight against AIDS is far from over. “The end of AIDS is not a mystery,” said Mohammed. “But success is not guaranteed.” She reiterated that with the right investments, policies, and leadership, eliminating AIDS by 2030 is still within reach—but only if the world “keeps up the fight.”

aids kills one person every one minute, says un

Parenting

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How A Pregnant Woman’s Weight Affects Her Baby's Risk For Infections?

how a pregnant woman’s weight affects her baby's risk for infections?

Having a family pet is a favorable idea considered by many. While parents of young children are worried about bacteria and germs being an issue, there are also other factors to consider. Many studies, like ‘The Power of Pets’ published in the News in Health, have shown how pets play a very important role in a child’s development. They explain how pets have been observed to lower cortisol levels as well as lower blood pressure. They also pointed out that studies have found pets to lower the feeling of loneliness, increase social support as well, and boost your mood. 

A new study shows a favorable result for families who wish to have pets, especially dogs, as they not only passively help your kid’s health, but they can also have an active effect on them. 

New research suggests that having a family dog might lower a baby's chances of getting <span>eczema</span> later in life. This study, published on June 4th in the journal Allergy, indicates that being around dogs could actually change how a child's genes react to eczema, by calming down skin inflammation.

Researchers explained that while we know genes play a role in eczema risk and that dogs might be protective, this is the first study to show how this happens at a very basic level. Eczema happens when something irritates the skin, causing it to become dry, itchy, and inflamed. We know some people are born more likely to get eczema, but exactly how their genes and their surroundings work together to either increase or decrease this risk hasn't been clear. 

<h2>How Was The Research Conducted? </h2>

The researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of data from 16 previously conducted studies. Their goal was to identify interactions between 24 specific genetic variants already known to be linked to eczema and a list of 18 environmental factors that could potentially influence a baby's susceptibility to the condition later in life. 

which included over 25,000 people, narrowed down the environmental factors to seven key ones: antibiotic use, owning a cat, owning a dog, breastfeeding, having an older sibling, smoking, and hygiene. 

The team then applied these findings to data from another 254,000 people to see which genes and environmental factors had the biggest impact on eczema risk. This second look found that a baby's exposure to dogs affects the interleukin-7 gene. This gene is involved in making a type of immune protein that helps control inflammation. Lab tests showed that being around dogs interacts with a gene variation that might otherwise cause eczema, essentially reducing skin inflammation by changing how interleukin-7 proteins work in human skin cells. 

The experts explained that their research aims to answer common questions parents ask, like "Why does my child have eczema?" and "What can I do to protect my baby?" While these findings are exciting, the researchers also stressed that more studies are needed to confirm what they found in the lab and to better understand exactly how dogs might affect human genes in this way. Researchers believes these findings give us a chance to tackle the rise of allergic diseases and protect future generations. 

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can pets cause skin inflammation

pet allergies

Having a family pet is a favorable idea considered by many. While parents of young children are worried about bacteria and germs being an issue, there are also other factors to consider. Many studies, like ‘The Power of Pets’ published in the News in Health, have shown how pets play a very important role in a child’s development. They explain how pets have been observed to lower cortisol levels as well as lower blood pressure. They also pointed out that studies have found pets to lower the feeling of loneliness, increase social support as well, and boost your mood. A new study shows a favorable result for families who wish to have pets, especially dogs, as they not only passively help your kid’s health, but they can also have an active effect on them. New research suggests that having a family dog might lower a baby's chances of getting eczema later in life. This study, published on June 4th in the journal Allergy, indicates that being around dogs could actually change how a child's genes react to eczema, by calming down skin inflammation. How Does Eczema Affect Kids? Researchers explained that while we know genes play a role in eczema risk and that dogs might be protective, this is the first study to show how this happens at a very basic level. Eczema happens when something irritates the skin, causing it to become dry, itchy, and inflamed. We know some people are born more likely to get eczema, but exactly how their genes and their surroundings work together to either increase or decrease this risk hasn't been clear. How Was The Research Conducted? The researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of data from 16 previously conducted studies. Their goal was to identify interactions between 24 specific genetic variants already known to be linked to eczema and a list of 18 environmental factors that could potentially influence a baby's susceptibility to the condition later in life. which included over 25,000 people, narrowed down the environmental factors to seven key ones: antibiotic use, owning a cat, owning a dog, breastfeeding, having an older sibling, smoking, and hygiene. Dogs, Genes, and Inflammation The team then applied these findings to data from another 254,000 people to see which genes and environmental factors had the biggest impact on eczema risk. This second look found that a baby's exposure to dogs affects the interleukin-7 gene. This gene is involved in making a type of immune protein that helps control inflammation. Lab tests showed that being around dogs interacts with a gene variation that might otherwise cause eczema, essentially reducing skin inflammation by changing how interleukin-7 proteins work in human skin cells. The experts explained that their research aims to answer common questions parents ask, like "Why does my child have eczema?" and "What can I do to protect my baby?" While these findings are exciting, the researchers also stressed that more studies are needed to confirm what they found in the lab and to better understand exactly how dogs might affect human genes in this way. Researchers believes these findings give us a chance to tackle the rise of allergic diseases and protect future generations. 

Having A Family Pet Can Decrease The Chances Of Your Kid Developing Eczema

having a family pet can decrease the chances of your kid developing eczema

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