Our Terms & Conditions | Our Privacy Policy
Last Updated:September 23, 2025, 08:01 IST
Hand and foot infections, from viral HFMD to fungal skin diseases, are rising in India’s monsoon season. Awareness and prevention are key to protection.
Handwashing has been shown to reduce infections
In many Indian cities, hand and foot infections have increased remarkably, especially during the monsoon season. These infections are typically classified into two groups: viral illnesses such as Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease (HFMD) and fungal skin infections. Both have been on the rise in recent months, driven by a combination of seasonal factors, lifestyle habits, and weakened immunity.
Dr Almas Pathan, MBBS, DNB Family Medicine, Deputy Medical Superintendent, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, shares all you need to know:
HFMD is a viral disease that spreads easily among children. It causes fever, mouth ulcers, and rashes on the hands and feet. Clusters of cases are common in schools and daycares, where children are in close contact with each other. Although most people recover within a week, the illness can be painful and requires adequate rest, hydration, and hygiene to prevent further transmission.
Fungal infections such as athlete’s foot or ringworm are also common during this time of year. Fungi thrive in warm and humid climates, often spreading through damp clothing or wet shoes. These infections affect both children and adults, typically showing up as itching, redness, or peeling skin.
Several factors contribute to the surge in cases. The monsoon’s persistent moisture creates the perfect environment for viruses and fungi to thrive. Increased social interaction post-pandemic has also heightened exposure, particularly among children. Additionally, lifestyle habits like walking barefoot on wet ground or wearing closed shoes for long hours add to the risk.
The good news is that these infections are largely preventable:
Wash hands regularly.
Keep feet dry.
Avoid sharing personal items.
Ensure proper ventilation for clothing and footwear.
Parents are encouraged to keep children with symptoms at home to prevent further outbreaks. While most cases are mild and manageable, the rising number of infections is a reminder to stay vigilant. Simple preventive steps and greater awareness can go a long way in protecting the health of both children and adults particularly during India’s humid monsoon months, when such infections peak.
Swati Chaturvedi
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated.First Published:
September 23, 2025, 08:01 IST
Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Images are for reference only.Images and contents gathered automatic from google or 3rd party sources.All rights on the images and contents are with their legal original owners.
Aggregated From –
Comments are closed.