Summer in India remains nearly a quarter of the year, especially between May- July. Each summer as the temperatures soar, so does the risk of various summer-related diseases. Excessive heatwaves can affect our body’s natural balance result-in  dehydration, heatstroke, and other health concerns. Apart from that, many of us also deal with skin related issues like rashes, sunburns, and acne during this time. It’s a must to stay informed about common summer diseases and take proactive steps to stay protected. One of the best ways is by having a reliable health insurance policy in place.

In this blog, we will understand the significance of health insurance in dealing with summer diseases.

What is Health Insurance?

Health Insurance is a kind of medical insurance that offers a wide range of benefits. It acts as a lifesaver when it comes to dealing with unexpected medical expenses. However, choosing the right health insurance plan is key to ensuring maximum coverage and peace of mind.

Types of Health Insurance 

  • Individual Health Insurance
  • Critical Illness Insurance
  • Disease-Specific Insurance
  • Senior Citizen Health Insurance
  • Family Floater Health Insurance 
  • Personal Accident Insurance

What are the most common Summer diseases?

Skin diseases

Skin issues are the most common health concerns in summer. It comes in the form of  fungal infections, sunburns, and heat rashes tend to occur more frequently due to excessive heat and humidity.

Food Poisoning

Another major concern in summer is food poisoning which people deal with during excessive heatwaves. The rising temperatures in summer creates an environment leading to rapid growth of viruses, bacteria, and fungi infections in food. Due to which we have observed increase in microbial activity leading to digestive issues  and, ultimately, food poisoning if contaminated food is consumed.

Heat Strokes and Headaches

Long-term exposure to high temperatures leads to the development of dehydration and physical exertion in the body. It indicates high risk of heat strokes. Intense heat triggers frequent headaches. To prevent these conditions, stay well-hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and opt for gentler forms of exercise like yoga during the summer months.

Typhoid

Typhoid is also very prevalent in summer seasons being a waterborne disease. It is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, which becomes more common during the summer months. The warmer temperatures accelerate bacterial growth in contaminated food and water, increasing the risk of infection.

Tips to Stay Healthy This Summer

  • Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.
  • Avoid eating street food.
  • Always wash fruits and vegetables before eating.
  • Wear light, breathable clothes and avoid going out during peak sunlight hours.
  • Keep your surroundings clean.
  • Wash hands frequently and maintain hygiene.

How Can Health Insurance Help Cover Medical Expenses from Summer Diseases?

Health insurance in the summer season acts as a valuable financial shield against the medical costs associated with summer diseases. As per Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, 1961, individuals who are purchasing a health insurance (mediclaim policy) not only receive coverage for treatment but also avail of the tax benefits. If your health insurance policy covers seasonal diseases, you can avail of claim deductions on related medical bills. To avail of these benefits, ensure your policy includes coverage for such conditions and keep all relevant medical invoices and hospitalization bills ready for the claims process.

Key Benefits of Health Insurance Coverage 

  • Financial Protection
  • Access to Quality Care
  • Cashless Treatment
  • Preventive Care and Wellness
  • Comprehensive Coverage
  • Coverage for Critical Illnesses
  • Tax Benefits

Bottom Line

While you can take all precautions, illnesses can still strike without warning. That's where health insurance steps in — not just as a financial backup, but as a partner in your well-being. This summer, invest in a plan that shields you from seasonal risks and ensures uninterrupted care for you and your family.

FAQs

What are the most common diseases during summer?

Common summer illnesses are heat strokes, dehydration, food poisoning, sunburns, skin rashes, and waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid. These conditions are often triggered by high temperatures, humidity, and contaminated food or water.

What should I look for in a health insurance plan to ensure summer disease coverage?

Choose a plan that includes outpatient consultations, day-care procedures, and hospitalization coverage. Also, ensure it offers cashless treatment at a wide network of hospitals.

Can I get tax benefits on health insurance for summer disease treatment?

Absolutely. Under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, premiums paid for health insurance are eligible for tax deductions. While treatment costs themselves aren't tax-deductible, the insurance premiums are.

Is it advisable to buy insurance just for the summer season?

While seasonal coverage might seem helpful, it's always better to opt for a comprehensive year-round health insurance plan that protects you against all kinds of health risks—seasonal and otherwise.