Safety Tips For The Harmattan Season

Mtcheeew! I sneezed for the third time and hugged my heavy cardigan closer.

It's January again and as much as I love our weather at this time of the year, it is pertinent we learn and religiously abide by the following rules in order to avoid trips to the doctor:

YOUR BODY

1. Face Masks & Inhalers - face masks are very important especially if you are living in the Northern region. It covers and protects your nose from the dust and other infections.

Asthma patients should always keep their inhalers close by.

2. Moisturizers - keep your body/skin moisturized to avoid cracking and dryness. Lip and nose balms, hand and body creams, oils and lotions should be kept handy.

3. Warm Clothes- If you don't already have any then it's advisable you buy woolen warm cloths (head and hand warmers, cardigans, stockings, trousers, duvet and so on) to keep you warm particularly at night.

4. Healthy Diet - Eat more fruits, vegetables and balanced diets to build up your immune system and fight infections.

5. Water & Coffee- regular intake of fluids like warm water and coffee or tea is a YES! This ensures you are hydrated. So, ditch the ice cold water for now.

6.  For those in the north, minimize your outdoor activities. If possible, stay indoors during this season due to the heavy winds and dust Hays.

7. Sleep under insecticide treated bed nets to safeguard you from illnesses and malaria.

8. Exercise - helps you to avoid fatigue, burn more calories and enhances your mental ability. So, get up and keep fit.

YOUR HOME

1. Cleanliness - A clean and dust free home is very vital. Therefore regular cleaning of surfaces and  your home is recommended.

2. Do not forget to keep your windows and doors closed always. Where louvers or door screens are missing and you cannot afford new ones, try to seal the space with old cardboard papers or plywood until you are able to replace them. This will help to keep the dust out and your home warm.

3. Fires - keep flammable materials away from your home and the reach of children. Avoid indiscriminate and unsupervised burning of bushes and flammable materials as this might result in fire outbreaks.

As you enjoy the season, don't  forget to be happy and fit like Doctor Ese in our video of the day... Keep Pushing!

Happy New Year!!

Model: Dr. Ese