COLDER DAYS AHEAD: DOH-6 cautions public vs cold weather illnesses

ILOILO City – The Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas has advised the public to be cautious of the common illnesses that may occur with the holiday season drawing closer.

DOH Region 6 director Dr. Marlyn Convocar said there is a possible increase in cases of fever and other ailments brought about by the dropping temperatures.

Earlier, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said that colder days will be expected ahead as the country transitions to the easterly winds, also known as amihan. The amihan, northeast monsoon usually comes from Siberia where snow is being experienced.

According to Convocar, cold weather usually triggers respiratory problems unless appropriate preventive measures are taken. Children and adults may become susceptible to cough, colds and fever.
“With the coming Christmas season ginapaabot naton nga mag-change ang weather. Those who have compromised immune system –especially ang mga kabataan kag senior citizen – are prone to pneumonia, influenza and they should complete their immunization kag aton  nga mga tigulang they should receive  flu vaccine or pneumonia vaccine para maproteksyonan sila,” Convocar said.

Convocar, however, said those who are already sick with fever, colds, or cough are advised to immediately seek medical attention and avoid crowded places in order to avoid complications. 

Indi naton i-compromise if we belong to this age group so we should wear protective clothing kung matugnaw,” she stressed.

Convocar also advised the public to avoid too much exposure from the sunlight.

“We should not be exposed to the heat of the sun from 10 to 2 o’clock kay amo na ang mainit sa gihapon bisan matugnaw sa aga,” she said.

DOH advices to help avoid catching cold are following:

* Avoid sudden exposure to cold, from a heated room to the cold outdoors, especially in the evening and morning. Those who are used to a morning and evening walk may have to change the routine.

* Avoid cold food items such as cool drinks, milk shakes and ice-creams.

* Having a warm bath, early morning and late evening is advisable.

* Avoid foods such as sour stuffs, pickles and fried foods.

* Eat small, frequent meals that are prepared fresh, are nutritious and of moderate temperature.

* If there are infected people in your neighborhood, avoid being in close contact with them as you might get infected as well.

* Wash your hands enough to keep them free of germs.

* As much as cold weather does not make you thirsty, drink enough fluids so that your body stays hydrated. If water is not appealing enough, drink warm water or tea or lime.

* Ensure that the house is clean and disinfected, especially kitchen and bathroom.

* Avoid exposure to dust and pollen as they carry lot of germs.

* Avoid staying in a poorly ventilated room; enough circulation ensures germs are not concentrated in one room./PN

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