THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR THIS SCHOOL BREAK

During the months of April and May, the Department of Health (DOH) reminds the millions of Filipinos against some of the common diseases and conditions that could ruin their vacation—sunburn, heat stroke, flu, stomach ailments, and rabies.

With much sunlight exposure expected, the DOH advised the public on timing their outdoor activities during periods when ultraviolet radiation is not at its peak. Outdoor activities must be done in the early morning or late afternoon and avoid the sun between 10 am and 2 pm.

If it can’t be avoided, use sunscreen products at least 30 minutes before going outdoors.

Heat stroke

The DOH also warns against heat stroke, a condition caused by the body overheating usually as a result of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion, especially in high temperature.

Heatstroke is an emergency situation because if left untreated it can quickly damage the victim’s brain, heart, kidneys and muscles. A general rule of thumb is to consume 500 ml per hour of vigorous exercise (biking or running under the sun) in addition to the two liters per day requirement.

Apart from heat stroke, another thing that occurs more often during this period is infection of the upper respiratory tact. Because of erratic weather that bring sudden rain from time to time, our body’ immune system may weaken and make us more susceptible to germs. Senior citizens are advised to get vaccinated against influenza before the flu season intensifies in June.

Careful of diarrhea, upset stomach

Because we all love to eat, the DOH also warns us to be very careful of eating street foods as well as those that have been prepared beforehand as these may be contaminated or have spoiled because of the warmer temperature.

Remember that food poisoning is especially common during this period due to warm temperature that favors the multiplication of microorganism.

Another infection that should be avoided is rabies that we could get from infected dogs or cats. The chance of getting bitten or scratched becomes high as more kids and young adults spend more time at home or in the neighborhood’s common areas where exposure to these infected pets and stray animals is high.

Fortunately, there are pre-exposure vaccines available as well as vaccine for those who just got bitten or scratched. Wounds must be cleaned and victims should be brought to a doctor since the virus, once it reached the spinal cord and brain, is no longer curable.

Another step to avoid the spread of rabies is to immunize pets as well as stray animals.

Apart from spread of rabies, DOH also warns against increasing incidence of sore eyes or conjunctivitis. More than just eye irritation, it can easily be due to harmful bacteria or viruses that easily spread to other people.

Since sore eyes can cause permanent damage or even blindness, one should immediately seek medical attention. Treatment for sore eyes can begin once a diagnosis is made. Depending on the cause of the condition, the ophthalmologist or optometrist may prescribe anti-inflammatory or antibiotic eye drops or ointment, or possibly antiviral medications.

To relieve discomfort at home, one can try applying warm compresses to your eyes and always wash hands to prevent its spread.