As the rainy season sweeps across the country, bringing cooler weather and much needed relief from the heat it also ushers in a host of health risk that should not be ignored. From waterborne diseases to malaria outbreaks and skin infections, the wet season is no time for carelessness. It is a time for every individual to be more proactive in taking care of their health, hygiene and surroundings.
The rainy season, though welcomed by farmers and gardeners, often come with a hidden price contaminated water sources, flooded streets, poor drainage and increased mosquito breeding grounds. These conditions combine to create a perfect storm for illness especially for children, the elderly and people with weak immune systems.
One of the biggest mistake people make during the rainy season is eating street food or drinking unfiltered water. Flooded street can carry sewage and waste that seep into food and water sources putting people at high risk of cholera typhoid and diarrhea.
Boil your drinking water or use water purification tablets. Avoid uncooked food sold in open areas and stick to home cooked meals. If you must buy food outside, ensure it is hot and freshly prepared. Health begins with what we put into our bodies.
Mosquitoes breed rapidly during the rainy season due to stagnant water left in open containers, drains and puddles. use mosquito nets especially at night, wear long sleeved clothes and spray insect repellents regularly most importantly, clean your environment empty old ties and clogged gutters should be cleared to stop mosquitoes from multiplying in your backyard.
Walking barefoot in the rainwater may seem harmless, even fun to some but it can lead to serious infections. Floodwaters are often mixed with sewage and industrial waste which can carry bacteria, fungi and even parasites that attack the skin and immune system.
The Ministry of Health and various health partners regularly share tips and alerts during the rainy season stay informed, the rainy season should not be taken lightly.
Nature may be refreshing the earth but we must also refresh our health habits. Personal hygiene proper clothing, clean surrounding can make the difference between a healthy season and a hospital visit.
