The rainy season is fast approaching, to some it is a season of excitement, fun and greenery environment, while to others it is their worst season ever. Whichever category you belong, it will interest you to know that the season is packed with a number of health problems which is very difficult to deal with. This health issues can be related to respiratory infections, food and water borne diseases that must be taken care of, cough, cold and flu are also the most common health problem of this season that affect mostly children and the elderly due to the fluctuating temperature. You need to take proper care during this season to stay healthy and maintain a proper healthy diet and hygiene to avoid falling sick.
When the rain starts pouring in, you first need to look for a shelter and try to save yourself from getting drenched. However, a shelter can save you from getting wet in the rain, but it will not protect you from catching any kind of infection. This is especially true when your immune system is very weak.
Let’s find out some tips that will help us stay healthy during the rainy season;
Get a Rain gear: The most effective thing that you can do is to keep your rain gear or umbrella always handy when you go out during the rainy season. A raincoat with hooded jacket and waterproof shoes are the best items.
Watch out your intake: Try to eat nutritious food and avoid eating out during rainy season. Prepare meals with full precaution and maintain health and hygiene throughout your environment. If you desire to eat road side food, the rainy season is not the best time because water and raw vegetables are not hygienic during this season and you don’t know how well the food is being prepared.
Follow a healthy diet and drink enough water: This is the season when the body and especially the digestive system are most prone to infections. Diseases in the rainy season are mostly water-borne, so make sure you drink water that is filtered or boiled and always make sure you drink enough water regardless of your activity level. The urge for water intake may reduce naturally because of the sudden drop in the temperature, so do not wait to get thirsty before you drink water. Drinking enough water will help you drain toxins from the body. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet in rainy season.
Avoid walking in the rain: Children especially love walking in the rain; parents should always watch their kids during this season. As much as it is tempting, walking in the rain makes you prone to a host of viral diseases and fungal infections at the feet or nails. If your foot is wet, dry them immediately and do not stay in wet socks or shoes. If your clothes get wet, do not sit in an AC environment, or change the clothes immediately. Keeping an extra pair of clothes and footwear in the office during this season will not be a bad idea.
Shower after being caught in the rain: Even though this may sound unusual because if you are drenched in rain, you will never want to take another shower. But taking a shower after you have been caught in the rain will protect you from many infections. Having your bath twice in a day during this season will insulate you against infections caused by the build-up of sweat and dirt due to humidity. You can as well take vitamin C to boost your immunity.
Avoid touching your eyes: Eye infections is very common during this period. This can lead to blindness if ignored. So, stay away from touching your eyes especially if your hands are dirty. Those who spend long hours in front of the screen may also experience redness, itching or irritation. You can consult your doctor immediately if you notice any of this.
Get a mosquito repellent: Accumulated water is a breeding ground for insects and mosquito and the rainy season is a party time for mosquitoes. Always wear or carry a mosquito repellent. You can also use a powerful insect repellent to hold mosquitoes away from your house and to prevent them from biting you.
Follow these tips and you will be saying bye bye to cough, cold, flu, malaria and other infections.
By: Mercy Kukah
