HARMATTAN: 13 Essential Health Tips for Families
As the Harmattan season approaches, the dry and dusty winds from the Sahara Desert bring significant health risks. Morning and evening temperatures drop sharply, while afternoons remain warm and dry. The dusty air creates a haze that reduces visibility and affects air quality.
While the season is part of our natural climate, it poses numerous health challenges, especially for children. Children are particularly vulnerable during Harmattan due to their developing immune systems.
They are prone to respiratory problems, dry skin, and dehydration. Without precautions, the season can lead to health issues like respiratory infections, cracked lips, and worsening skin conditions.
Thankfully, staying healthy during Harmattan is achievable with the right approach to food, hydration, and clothing. Here are 13 essential tips to help your family stay safe and healthy:
1. Stay Hydrated: Encourage children to drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat dehydration caused by the dry air.
2. Boost Immunity with Vitamin C: Include fruits like oranges, lemons, and guavas in meals to strengthen immunity and ward off infections.
3. Consume Omega-3 Rich Foods: Foods like fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds support skin health and combat dryness.
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4. Enjoy Warm Meals: Warm soups and porridges, like pepper soup, help keep the body warm in cooler weather.
5. Avoid Cold Drinks: Opt for warm beverages like tea, ginger tea, or honey in warm water to soothe the respiratory tract.
6. Eat Moisture-Rich Foods: Fruits like cucumber and watermelon help maintain hydration and combat dryness.
7. Wear Protective Clothing: Dress children in long-sleeved shirts, trousers, and socks to shield them from dry winds and dust allergies.
8. Layer Up: Use layered clothing, such as jackets and hoodies, to stay warm in the mornings and evenings and adjust as temperatures rise.
9. Protect Face and Eyes: Use face masks or scarves to guard against dust, and provide sunglasses to protect children’s eyes.
10. Moisturize Skin and Lips: Regularly apply moisturizer and lip balm to prevent dry skin and chapped lips.
11. Maintain Hygiene: Bathe regularly, wash hands often, and ensure clothes are kept clean to minimize dust exposure.
12. Avoid Crowded Areas: Reduce exposure to crowded places to minimize the risk of respiratory infections.
13. Seek Medical Attention When Needed: If symptoms like persistent coughs, rashes, or eye irritation occur, consult a doctor promptly.
By prioritizing hydration, nutrition, and protective measures, your family can stay healthy and comfortable throughout Harmattan.
Aishat M. Abisola is a member of the Society for Health Communication, Wuye, Abuja. She can be reached at: [email protected].
