Common Waterborne Illnesses During Songkran & How to Prevent Them Easily

Stay Safe While Splashing! Common Water-Related Illnesses During Songkran and How to Prevent Them

Songkran is all about fun, family, and staying cool—but behind the joy of water play lurk potential health risks, especially from unclean water. Infections can easily spread during the festival, affecting both children and adults. Some illnesses, like conjunctivitis or skin rashes, may seem minor, but others—such as leptospirosis or COVID-19—can be serious if not properly prevented.

This guide will help you enjoy Songkran safely, so you don’t have to spend your post-holiday recovering from illness.

💧 Common Water-Related Illnesses During Songkran

🔹 Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Caused by viruses or bacteria in contaminated water
Symptoms: Red eyes, burning sensation, watery discharge, sticky eye mucus

🔹 Athlete’s Foot & Skin Rashes
Caused by prolonged skin exposure to moisture or dirty water
Symptoms: Itching, redness, peeling skin, or fluid-filled blisters

🔹 Leptospirosis
A bacterial infection from water contaminated with animal urine, especially from rats
Symptoms: High fever, headache, muscle pain (especially calves), red eyes

🔹 Respiratory Infections (e.g., COVID-19, colds)
Caused by close contact in crowded areas or shared water play
Symptoms: Fever, sore throat, coughing, runny nose

🛡️ Simple Ways to Prevent Waterborne Illnesses

✅ Avoid using unclean water
Don’t play with water stored in roadside containers, unchanged water, or water with visible debris.

✅ Stay out of the water if you have open wounds
Cuts and scrapes provide a direct entry point for harmful bacteria.

✅ Wear swim goggles
Especially for those with sensitive eyes. Rinse your eyes with clean water after water play.

✅ Wear non-slip or closed-toe footwear
To prevent injury or stepping on sharp objects in wet areas.

✅ Shower and change clothes immediately after playing
Avoid keeping wet clothes on for extended periods to prevent skin issues.

✅ Carry hygiene essentials
Bring hand sanitizer, face masks, and wet wipes—especially if you'll be in crowded areas or using shared items.

👶 Special Tips for Children and the Elderly

• Children should be supervised closely and avoid overly crowded water play areas.

• Older adults should play water games in shaded, dry areas with non-slippery surfaces—and keep activity short to prevent fatigue or overheating.

A joyful Songkran isn’t just about water—it’s about staying healthy while enjoying the tradition.
By understanding common water-related illnesses and taking simple preventative steps, you and your family can fully enjoy the festival—worry-free and well.

References

• Department of Disease Control, Thailand. (2023). Health Recommendations for Songkran

• World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Water-related diseases

• Mayo Clinic. (2023). Leptospirosis and Waterborne Risks