According to a recent study by ManipalCigna Health Insurance, health insurance claims for monsoon-related illnesses have increased significantly over the past five years, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 34%. The most common and costly illness during the monsoon season is dengue, which has seen a staggering 66% CAGR in claims between 2020 and 2024. This rapid growth is not only due to the rising number of infections but also the higher cost of treating dengue compared to other monsoon-linked illnesses.
The study also reveals regional variations in the prevalence of monsoon-related diseases, with South India emerging as a hotspot with a 36% CAGR in claims. This is closely linked to the region’s heavier rainfall and flooding. In contrast, North India has seen an 8% decline in such claims, suggesting relatively fewer rainfall-related disease outbreaks.
The monsoon months from June to September have a significant impact on healthcare systems, with infectious disease claims spiking by 34% compared to a 23% increase in non-monsoon months. Demographic data shows that children from newborn babies to 17 years account for 31% of monsoon illness claims, indicating their higher vulnerability to seasonal diseases. Male patients make up 57% of all such claims, suggesting either greater exposure or higher treatment-seeking behavior among men.
The spike in monsoon-related health claims is a concern for both public health authorities and insurance providers, highlighting the need for better monsoon preparedness, especially in high-risk regions and among vulnerable groups like children. The study suggests that there is a need to step up prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment mechanisms to mitigate the impact of monsoon-related illnesses. Overall, the data emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the monsoon season and taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of diseases. By understanding the trends and patterns of monsoon-related illnesses, healthcare providers and authorities can work together to reduce the burden on healthcare systems and improve health outcomes.