Medical expert provides helpful safety insight during rainy season

With the associated cold resulting from the rainy season, the Medical Director, Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Dr. Clarkson Agagha, has provided tips for combating the weather conditions. 

From respiratory diseases to injuries and mental health concerns, the Medical Expert highlighted the importance of taking precautionary measures to stay safe.

Speaking with PEBNEWS Correspondent, Dr. Agagha reveals some health risks and provides essential information for navigating the rainy season.

According to Dr. Agagha, "The weather is very cold and it can increase the risk of certain illnesses, including: Common Cold -Caused by viruses with  symptoms like runny nose, nasal congestion, and cough. 

"Influenza (Flu) : A more severe viral infection with associated symptoms like fever, chills, and body aches( generalised body pain). 

"Bronchitis: this is Inflammation of the airways that are often caused by viruses or bacteria. 

"Pneumonia: an  infection of the lungs, which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

"Acute Asthma attack - this may be triggered by the weather in some patients. 

"Malaria - this can be increased due to stagnant water that is a good breeding medium for mosquitoes.

"Increase risk of water borne diseases such as Cholera, Typhoid, Dysentery , Hepatitis, Schistomiasis etc due to pollution occasioned by flooding through heavy rain fall.

"Hypothermia : A dangerous drop in body temperature that  can occur when there's prolonged exposure  to cold temperatures. 

"Frostbite: Damage to skin and tissues due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. 

"Raynaud's Phenomenon: A condition that affects blood flow to the fingers and toes, triggered by cold temperatures. 

"Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): A type of depression that occurs during the winter months due to reduced sunlight.

"Injuries occasioned from flooding during heavy rains. Erosion due to flooding from heavy rainfall. Drowning - due to heavy rainfall.

"Houses and infrastructure collapse or damage occasioned from flooding in heavy rainfall," he said.

To stay safe and healthy during the rainy season, Dr. Agagha further recommended these precautions:

"Warm Dressing: Wearing multiple layers to trap warm air and maintain body heat. Wear layers to stay warm, and protect extremities like hands, feet, and head.

"Limiting  exposure: By avoiding prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, especially for vulnerable individuals like the elderly and young children.

"Staying dry: By  avoid getting wet because moisture  accelerate heat loss. Staying hydrated: Drinking  plenty of fluids to help the body fight off infections.

"Practice good hygiene: Washing  hands frequently to prevent the spread of viruses. Getting vaccinated: Getting flu and pneumonia vaccines to protect  against these illnesses.

"Been active: Regular exercise can help boost  immune system and overall heath.

"Monitoring weather forecasts: Helps to stay informed about weather conditions and plan accordingly. 

"Eat nutritious food: Consume warm, nutritious meals and snacks to help keep your body energized. 

"Getting enough sleep: Adequate rest can help the body cope with cold stress. 

"Use heating safely: Ensure that heating systems are properly maintained and used safely to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. 

"Keeping emergency supplies handy such as blankets, flashlights, and first aid kits in case of power outages or other emergencies." He added.