Health Hazards During the Wet Season: What to Watch Out For

The wet season in Australia—when everything from the ground beneath your feet to the air around you feels damp and heavy. If you’re living in or travelling to Australia’s northern regions, like Queensland, the Northern Territory, or northern Western Australia, you’re no stranger to this. Typically spanning from November to April, the wet season brings dramatic thunderstorms, heavy downpours, and high humidity that can turn the landscape lush and green but also create its fair share of challenges.

While the rain has its perks, this season also brings hidden health risks that can sneak up on you if you’re not careful. From mould growth in your home to mosquito-borne illnesses buzzing about, the wet season can be a breeding ground for health hazards that affect both you and your family.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the common health issues that can crop up during the wet season and share practical tips to keep you safe and healthy, so you can enjoy the rain without the risks.

Common health hazards during the wet season

The wet season may transform Australia’s northern landscapes into verdant oases, but it also creates the perfect conditions for a host of health hazards. With the combination of heavy rainfall, high humidity, and rising temperatures, certain risks become more prominent. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common health challenges you might encounter during this time and why they’re worth paying attention to.

1. Mould and dampness

The wet season’s hallmark humidity can quickly turn your home or vehicle into a haven for mould. From musty-smelling carpets to unsightly spots on walls, mould thrives in damp conditions and can trigger allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. If left unchecked, it can spread rapidly, making it more than just an eyesore—it becomes a health risk.

Read more on Preventing Mould Before It Starts: A Step-by-step Guide

2. Waterborne diseases

Flooding and stagnant water can contaminate drinking water supplies, introducing bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause illnesses like gastroenteritis and leptospirosis. Walking through or coming into contact with floodwater can also expose you to harmful pathogens. This is especially concerning in flood-prone areas where clean water sources may be compromised.

3. Mosquito-borne diseases

As the rain fills up puddles and ponds, it creates ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. This means a higher risk of diseases such as dengue fever, Ross River virus, and Barmah Forest virus. Even a forgotten bucket in your backyard can become a mosquito nursery, putting your health—and your family’s—at risk.

4. Skin infections

Constant wet conditions and prolonged exposure to damp clothing can lead to skin infections like athlete’s foot or ringworm. Even minor cuts and abrasions can become problematic in the wet season if they’re exposed to bacteria in muddy or stagnant water. It’s a small issue that can quickly escalate if not treated.

5. Heat-related illnesses

While the rain may cool things off temporarily, the combination of heat and high humidity can still lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. The body struggles to regulate its temperature in such conditions, making it vital to stay hydrated and find ways to keep cool—even when the sun isn’t shining brightly.

Prevention and safety tips

The wet season doesn’t have to derail your plans or put your health at risk. With a few proactive steps, you can minimise exposure to common health hazards and ensure a safe and comfortable season for yourself and your family. Here are some practical tips to help you stay ahead of the challenges that come with the rain.

1. Keep your environment safe

A damp home is a breeding ground for mould, bacteria, and other nasties. To keep your living space safe and healthy:

• Reduce humidity: Use dehumidifiers or air purifiers to keep indoor humidity levels in check.

• Improve ventilation: Open windows on dry days, or use exhaust fans to keep air flowing in damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens.

• Inspect regularly: Check for signs of mould in hidden corners, such as under carpets, behind furniture, and inside cupboards. Don’t forget to check your clothes and wardrobes too. Mould can grow on fabrics if they’re stored in humid or poorly ventilated spaces, leaving your garments with an unpleasant odour and unsightly spots. Another spot often overlooked is your air-conditioner. Mould can thrive in the moist interior of the unit, especially if it hasn’t been cleaned or maintained regularly. To address this, clean the air-conditioner and prevent future growth by placing SAN-AIR’s Air Handler Reactive Gels, designed to reduce mould and improve air quality.

• Waterproof storage: Store important items in sealed, waterproof containers to protect them from dampness and potential flooding.

Bonus tip! 

Use specialised mould prevention products: The complete range of SAN-AIR Mould Removal products offers effective solutions for keeping mould at bay. Their reactive gels can be placed anywhere at home, including boats, caravans, and storage areas, ensuring these spaces remain safe and dry during the wet season.

2. Practise safe water habits

Floodwaters and stagnant pools can be deceptively dangerous. To avoid waterborne diseases:

• Stick to safe drinking water: Boil tap water if necessary, or rely on bottled water during floods.

• Avoid contact with floodwater: Wear waterproof boots if you must step through it, and wash thoroughly afterward.

• Clean and disinfect: Sanitise items and surfaces that have come into contact with floodwater to prevent bacterial spread.

3. Keep mosquitoes at bay

Mosquitoes thrive in the wet season, but you can reduce their impact with these tips:

• Eliminate breeding grounds: Empty buckets, tyres, and any other containers holding water around your property.

• Use protection: Applying insect repellent is a must, especially in areas prone to mosquito-borne diseases. Repellents containing DEET or picaridin are highly effective, offering long-lasting protection by disrupting the sensory receptors mosquitoes use to locate their targets. However, prolonged use of DEET, especially on babies and young children, can sometimes be harmful, as their sensitive skin absorbs chemicals more easily. It’s best to follow the usage guidelines carefully or consider alternative options. For those looking for gentler solutions, natural insect repellents made with essential oils like lemongrass, citronella, and tea tree oil like those in Good Riddance Insect Repellents can be great options. These oils work by masking the scents that attract mosquitoes, such as carbon dioxide and human sweat. While they may not last as long as chemical repellents, they can be reapplied as needed and are generally safe for all ages.

• Invest in mosquito barriers: Use screens on windows and doors, and sleep under mosquito nets in high-risk areas.

4. Prioritise personal hygiene

Wet conditions can take a toll on your skin, but proper hygiene can prevent infections:

• Stay dry: Change out of wet clothing as soon as possible and opt for quick-drying, breathable fabrics.

• Protect your feet: Wear waterproof footwear to prevent fungal infections and keep your feet dry.

• Clean wounds promptly: Even small cuts can become infected, so wash them thoroughly and apply antiseptic. It’s a good idea to keep a fully stocked first aid kit in your home, car, or backpack for quick access during emergencies. Make sure it includes essentials like antiseptic wipes, bandages, and antibacterial creams so you can handle minor injuries without delay. Having one handy ensures you’re always ready to respond, even when you’re outdoors or far from medical assistance.

5. Stay cool and hydrated

The combination of heat and humidity can be sneaky, so it’s important to keep your body temperature under control:

• Hydrate regularly: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you’re not feeling thirsty.

• Dress smart: Wear loose, breathable clothing to stay cool.

• Avoid peak heat: If possible, stay indoors during the hottest and most humid parts of the day.

Signs you shouldn’t ignore: When to seek help

While many wet season health issues can be managed with preventive care and first aid, some conditions require immediate medical attention. 

Key symptoms to watch for

If you or a family member experience any of the following symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical help:

• High fever: A persistent or sudden spike in body temperature could signal a serious infection, such as dengue fever or leptospirosis.

• Severe headaches: Headaches accompanied by fever, nausea, or a stiff neck may indicate a mosquito-borne illness or other infections.

• Prolonged fatigue: Extreme tiredness or weakness that doesn’t improve with rest can be a sign of underlying illness.

• Skin infections not healing: Redness, swelling, or pus in wounds that worsen over time may indicate a bacterial infection that requires medical attention.

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea: These symptoms, especially if prolonged, could point to waterborne illnesses or food poisoning.

• Unexplained pain or swelling: Particularly in joints or muscles, this could be linked to mosquito-borne diseases like Ross River virus.

• Difficulty breathing or chest pain: These are critical symptoms that should always prompt immediate action.

The importance of early treatment

Conditions such as leptospirosis or mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever can escalate quickly without proper care. Early intervention is crucial to avoid complications and speed up recovery. For example:

• Leptospirosis, caused by exposure to contaminated water, can lead to organ damage if untreated.

• Dengue fever can progress to severe forms, causing internal bleeding or shock.

What to do in an emergency

• Contact your local medical services or visit the nearest clinic or hospital if symptoms persist or worsen.

• Carry a list of your symptoms, when they started, and any possible exposures (e.g., floodwater or mosquito bites) to help healthcare providers diagnose and treat you effectively.

Conclusion

Sure, the wet season comes with its quirks but it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. With a bit of planning and the right precautions, you can keep your health and home in check and maybe even enjoy the refreshing rain while you’re at it!

And remember, if something doesn’t feel quite right, a quick trip to the doctor can save you from bigger headaches later. Stay safe, stay smart, and don’t let the wet season rain on your parade!