The Christmas and New Year celebration is when people connect most with family and friends. In Nigeria, this season also comes with the cold, dry, dusty winds of harmattan.
Harmattan is notorious for being the season of the flu and the common cold. It is not uncommon to find many people coughing, sneezing, or blowing their noses during Harmattan. Worse still, Harmattan can also cause other complications in the respiratory system, such as pneumonia and laryngitis. In other cases, it could worsen already established diseases like sickle cell anaemia, arthritis, and rheumatism.
Between being in close contact with multiple people and a weather change that comes with its related illnesses, it is important to think about how to remain Illness free during the holiday and even after.
Here are five tips to keep yourself healthy and happy this holiday.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
Make it a habit to wash your hands more often than ever. Use soap and wash them for at least 20 seconds. Doing this often will help you get rid of bacteria and other disease-causing microorganisms. You should wash your hands before and after eating, after taking out the trash, after using the toilet, and after changing baby diapers or taking children to the bathroom.
Wear Protective Clothing
December is typically cold and dry. This is not the best time to wear outfits that show off a lot of skin. You should wear clothes that cover up your body, especially your chest. You want to protect it from the cold to prevent a cold infection. This is especially important for children with weaker immune systems than adults.
Moisturise Your Skin Properly
Your skin tends to become dryer in the Harmattan months. In some cases, it becomes so dry it cracks. This is especially common in your lips and heels. You should use a heavier moisturiser and a good body oil to keep your skin moisturised. Pay special attention to your heels, knees and elbows when applying your moisturizer and oil. Use a nourishing lip balm to keep your lips nice and smooth too.
Get your Flu Vaccine
An underrated way of preventing the flu is to get an influenza vaccine. The United States Centre for Disease Control (CDC) stipulates that each person should take the influenza vaccine annually. This vaccine either prevents the disease from occurring or makes sure that if it does occur, the severity is significantly reduced. If you haven’t done so already, get yours as soon as you can.
Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
Support your immune system by feeding your body with fruits and vegetables packed with vitamins and minerals that can help ward off disease. Remember to wash fruits and vegetables before cooking or eating them.
Holidays are times to have fun and be merry with family and friends. Nobody wants to be sick at home while everyone else is out enjoying the holiday. Do what you can to protect yourself so you can enjoy yourself to the fullest.
Happy Holidays!
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