The rains are here, and the truth is that the rainy season comes with a unique set of challenges to your health. These challenges vary from the common cold to malaria. If you do not take care, the rainy season can become a horrible one.
And note that in the past, a sneeze would be followed by ‘Bless you,’ but with the advent of COVID-19, a panicked look is probably the kindest reaction you will get.
Try to follow these tips to avoid coming down with a cold or any other disease:
1. Don’t play in the accumulated water due to flooding.
Remember, microorganisms, rat’s feces, urine and other dangerous elements may be in flood waters.
2. Stay Warm
The drop in temperature can affect your body’s ability to fight off infections, making you more prone to diseases, especially for children. Because their immune system is still developing, they are more vulnerable. So, stay warm!
Yes, we know that you like the weather. It is indeed a welcome break from the heat and dryness of earlier months. Nevertheless, you must protect yourself by dressing warmly. Bring out the sweaters and turtlenecks.
3. Keep Water Moving
Stagnant pools of water serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes so ensure that water keeps moving. This is the time to clear those drainages and avoid dumping refuse indiscriminately.
4. Stay Clean & Dry
You must maintain a high level of hygiene at all times. Ensure you have a bath if you get caught in the rain. Invest in a good umbrella, remove wet clothes as soon as possible, and avoid wearing damp footwear. Fungal infections tend to thrive in damp settings so dry off vigorously.
5. Watch What You Eat
Cases of cholera, typhoid, and other food/water-borne diseases tend to surge during this period. Avoid buying street food or food from vendors whose hygiene levels you cannot ascertain. The same goes for drinking water as well. If you drink water from a well, make sure you boil the water properly before drinking.
6. Avoid using handkerchiefs
During the rainy season, allergies tend to act up and the common cold is more common. Avoid carrying a handkerchief if you have a runny nose because a hanky is perfect for spreading disease. When you blow your nose and stuff the hanky back into your pocket, you create an incubator for germs.
It is better to blow your nose into a piece of tissue paper so you can throw it away. Always wash your hands afterward and cover your mouth and nose with the crook of your elbow if you have to sneeze.
7. Remember to eat healthily and stay fit too.
Culled from L&H News and Hygeia
