STAYING HEALTHY ON RAINY DAYS

 

By OMODELE, Goodness.

 After enduring the scorching heat of the dry season, the arrival of the rainy season provides a refreshing break for our souls. Excitement builds as we await the first raindrops, embracing the happiness accompanying the showers. However, just like everything in this life, this season presents challenges to overcome. While many people are happy about the cooler, rainy weather, others worry about the negative impact of the rainy season on their health. The health challenges typically encountered during the rainy season are as follows:    

Waterborne Diseases: Increased rainfall can lead to contamination of water sources, resulting in the spread of waterborne illnesses such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. These diseases can be especially problematic in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water.

Mosquito-Borne Diseases: The rainy season provides the ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes, leading to an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases like malaria.

Respiratory Infections: Damp and humid conditions during the rainy season can contribute to the spread of respiratory infections, such as the common cold, influenza, and pneumonia. The increased moisture can also exacerbate existing respiratory conditions like asthma.

Skin Infections: Prolonged exposure to moisture and standing water can lead to an increased risk of skin infections, such as fungal infections (e.g., athlete's foot, ringworm) and bacterial infections.

Food Poisoning: Heavy rainfall can contaminate food supplies, leading to an increased risk of foodborne illnesses like diarrhoea, gastroenteritis, and food poisoning. 

Mental Health Challenges: As surprising as this may sound, the rainy season also has an impact on mental health, with increased feelings of depression, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in some individuals.  

Arthritis and Joint Pain: The changes in barometric pressure and humidity can aggravate symptoms of arthritis and joint pain in some individuals susceptible to body pain.

Given the health challenges the rainy season can cause, here are simple tips that can help prevent falling prey to these issues:

Ensure to stay hydrated since the rainy season can be deceptively dehydrating due to increased humidity.

Avoid street food or raw foods like salads, as they may carry waterborne infections. Better still, opt for well-cooked and hot meals.

Frequent handwashing is crucial, especially before meals. Carry sanitizer when you can't access soap and water.

Always carry an umbrella and wear appropriate rain gear to stay dry and avoid getting soaked.

Wear closed waterproof shoes to protect your feet from dirty water and prevent fungal infections. Also, the use of a thick pair of socks is essential.

Make use of mosquito net and if possible, mosquito repellents.

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Include foods that are high in vitamin C, like citrus fruits, to boost your immune system.

Ensure your living spaces are well-ventilated to prevent the growth of moulds and mildew, which can cause respiratory problems.

If you get caught in the rain, change into dry clothes. Wet clothes can lower your body temperature and make you more susceptible to illnesses.

A good night's sleep is essential for a strong immune system. Ensure you get enough rest.

Prevention is key during the rainy season. Following these simple tips will help you stay productive and enjoy this 

season to the fullest.