Intense Monsoon Raises Dengue and Rat Fever Risk Across Kerala; Star Health Strengthens Access to Doctor Consultations
Kottayam : As Kerala enters an intense phase of the monsoon, the risk of dengue, leptospirosis, commonly known as rat fever, viral fever, Shigella and other infectious diseases is rising across the state. Continued rainfall, waterlogging and contact with contaminated water make early medical consultation particularly important during this period.
Against this backdrop, Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited (NSE: STARHEALTH; BSE: 543412), one of India’s leading standalone health insurance companies, is strengthening access to virtual doctor consultations, Home Healthcare and planned hospitalisation support across Kerala.
The company has recorded approximately 1,800 virtual doctor consultations in the state last month, indicating increased use of virtual medical guidance for fever, body pain, vomiting and other monsoon-related symptoms.
The outreach connects policyholders to guided support through ‘Talk to Star’, while members of the general public can access free 24/7 Virtual OPD consultations through the Star Health Customer app. Policyholders can call 7200 222 333 and press 1 for Home Healthcare or press 2 for planned hospitalisation assistance.
Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Suresh R S, Business Head, Star Health Insurance, said: “Kerala’s intense monsoon increases the risk of illnesses linked to stagnant and contaminated water. Fever following exposure to rainwater, mud or waterlogged areas should not be dismissed as a routine seasonal illness. Our focus is to help families access timely medical guidance and the appropriate care pathway. Policyholders can reach us through Talk to Star for Home Health Care or planned hospitalisation support, while the wider public can use the Star Health Customer app for free 24/7 Virtual OPD consultations.”
Why early consultation matters during the monsoon
Leptospirosis is a significant seasonal concern for people who walk through flooded roads, work in waterlogged locations or come into contact with contaminated soil and water.
Its early symptoms, including fever, headache, body pain, chills, vomiting and fatigue, can resemble dengue or a routine viral infection. This can lead to delayed consultation or self-medication.
People experiencing persistent fever after such exposure should consult a doctor and share details of the exposure. This can help the doctor determine whether further tests, monitoring or hospital-based care may be required.
Monsoon healthcare support for policyholders
The initiative brings together three service interventions:
• Unlimited teleconsultations: Policyholders can access unlimited teleconsultations during the policy period, enabling them to seek advice at the first sign of illness.
• Talk to Star: The service provides guided assistance on Home Healthcare, planned hospitalisation, cashless processes, network hospitals and required documents.
• Cashless Home Healthcare: Eligible policyholders whose condition can be managed at home under medical supervision may receive doctor-prescribed treatment. Subject to policy terms and medical requirements, this may include nursing care, routine blood tests, monitoring, intravenous fluids and prescribed injections.
Free Virtual OPD for the general public
Non-policyholders and members of the general public can book a free 24/7 Virtual OPD consultation through the Star Health Customer app.
To access the service, users can:
1. Download the Star Health Customer app on a smartphone.
2. Register using basic details, including name, email ID and date of birth.
3. Select ‘Telemedicine’ from the menu.
4. Book an online consultation with a doctor from the relevant specialty.
As part of the outreach, Star Health is encouraging households across Kerala, especially families with school-going children, senior citizens and individuals frequently exposed to outdoor or waterlogged environments, to seek medical advice if fever persists and disclose any recent contact with stagnant or contaminated water. Early consultation can help families take the appropriate next step before symptoms worsen.
