Summer time is just around the corner. As school-year will end early this year, the long sunny days could be fun for the family and friends to enjoy but we need to keep in mind that it can also bring many health problems among us. The El Niño phenomenon will bring much warmer temperatures than the average during this dry season and since the hot weather in the country had started to rise this month of March, we need to watch out for the common summer diseases.
The Department of Health (DOH) made a public announcement asking Filipinos to be careful and to keep on watch of the diseases brought about by the hot season of the year.
The 8 common summer diseases are as follows:
- Heat stroke – can be fatal if left untreated. It can be avoided through limited amount of time spent outdoors, be wary of the hottest time of the day which is around 11am until 3pm.
- Sun Burn – the use of a sun block when walking outdoors, during swimming parties and outings is recommended.
- Prickly heat or commonly known as “Bungang Araw” – these itchy red rashes are borne out of hot and humid weather. Clogging of sweat glands can be another factor that induces it. It can be relieved by applying prickly powder or cornstarch. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
- Food poisoning – due to the hot temperature, food can easily spoil. Place leftover viands inside the refrigerator. Foods should also be well cooked to keep it from spoilage. Refrain from buying your food in carinderias or inspect carefully before buying, make sure there are no bubbles seen on top it. Bubbling most often indicate that food has turned bad. The smell can also tell if it’s still fit to be eaten.
- Diarrhea – contaminated or unsafe drinking water and food can cause diarrhea
- Sore eyes – the heat can make the eyes dry, combined with the dust and polluted smoke, lack of eye lubrication can result to a pink eye.
- Measles or Tigdas and Chicken Pox or “Bulutong” – are very common viral outbreaks during summer time. Make sure our kids are vaccinated to prevent serious health complications.
- Dengue – in the Philippines, Dengue fever is an all year round disease carried by mosquitoes, and continues to rage in the metropolis and provinces.
Summer disease awareness, wearing light loose clothing and drinking plenty of water are the most important things for us to remember in order to keep us and our family safe and healthy as well as to take advantage and fully enjoy the activities that summer season offer. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, isn’t it.”