Understanding Food Poisoning Risks During Monsoon Season

As the monsoon season brings increased humidity, the risk of food poisoning rises significantly. Actor Shehnaz Treasury's recent experience highlights the importance of safe food handling and clean water consumption. Dr. Shankar Zanwar emphasizes that both home-cooked and outside food can pose risks if not managed properly. Symptoms of food poisoning can escalate quickly, making it crucial to recognize them early. Certain groups, including young children and pregnant women, are at higher risk. By following simple precautions, individuals can protect themselves from foodborne illnesses during this rainy season. Discover effective strategies to stay safe and healthy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 14, 2026, 14:32 IST

Actor Shehnaz Treasury's Warning on Food Poisoning

Shehnaz Treasury, an actor and travel influencer, recently took to social media to express her struggles with severe food poisoning, stating, "Every single monsoon I end up with food poisoning. What's in our food and water?" This sentiment resonates with many who suffer from stomach issues during the rainy season, a time when food and water contamination is more prevalent. Dr. Shankar Zanwar, a Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist at Gleneagles Hospital in Mumbai, explains that the monsoon creates ideal conditions for the proliferation of bacteria, viruses, and parasites, making foodborne illnesses a significant health concern during this time. He noted, “The monsoon is infamous not only for heavy rainfall but also for frequent food poisoning outbreaks due to increased humidity and bacterial growth. Contamination of food and water is common, leading to numerous cases of foodborne diseases. However, many people mistakenly believe that only food from outside their homes is unsafe.”

Why Food Poisoning Peaks in Monsoon

The warm and humid conditions of the monsoon season facilitate the rapid growth of harmful microorganisms. Contaminated food and drinking water become significant sources of infection, resulting in illnesses such as bacterial gastroenteritis and other foodborne diseases. Many individuals assume that only food from restaurants or street vendors poses a risk. However, Dr. Zanwar warns that home-cooked meals can also be hazardous if ingredients are not stored or handled correctly. "Home-cooked meals can quickly become unsafe if proper precautions are not taken," he cautions. Issues like improper refrigeration, cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods, and consuming leftovers that have been left out can all heighten the risk of food poisoning.

Recognizing Symptoms of Food Poisoning

Food poisoning typically starts with stomach discomfort but can escalate quickly if not addressed. Common symptoms include:

Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Severe abdominal cramps
Fever
Weakness and fatigue
Dehydration

Dr. Zanwar emphasizes that symptoms like persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, dehydration, or high fever should be treated as medical emergencies, especially if they worsen.

Identifying High-Risk Groups

While anyone can suffer from food poisoning, certain demographics are at a greater risk for severe illness and complications. These include:

Young children
Pregnant women
Older adults
Individuals with weakened immune systems
People with chronic health conditions

For these groups, dehydration can develop rapidly and may necessitate hospitalization if fluids are not replenished promptly.

Preventive Measures for the Rainy Season

Dr. Zanwar suggests several straightforward yet effective precautions to minimize the risk of foodborne infections:

Opt for freshly prepared meals whenever possible.
Steer clear of street-side cut fruits, raw vegetables, and salads that may have been washed with contaminated water.
Only consume boiled, filtered, or properly treated water.
Wash hands thoroughly with soap before eating and after using the restroom.
Store cooked food safely and refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Maintain good kitchen hygiene and prevent cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.

Avoiding Self-Medication

A common mistake is taking antibiotics without medical advice. Dr. Zanwar states, "Most stomach infections do not require antibiotics." Since many cases are caused by viruses or toxins rather than bacteria, unnecessary antibiotic use can be detrimental and contribute to antibiotic resistance. Proper diagnosis, oral rehydration, adequate fluid intake, and supportive care are typically sufficient for recovery. Shehnaz's experience serves as a crucial reminder that food poisoning can escalate from a minor inconvenience to a serious health issue, particularly during the monsoon. By practicing safe food handling, ensuring clean water consumption, and recognizing early warning signs, individuals can significantly lower their risk of seasonal gastrointestinal infections.