Health Secretary Tips Precautionary Measures During Rainy Season
By: Bola Ajao
The FCT Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, has urged caregivers and mothers to take special precautions to protect the elderly and children during the rainy season.
Accordingly, this is to reduce the risk of communicable and non-communicable diseases that are more prevalent during this period.
The Mandate Secretary pointed out this in his office at Area 11, Garki I District, Abuja, Thursday.
Fasawe emphasized the importance of ensuring the health and safety of all, particularly the vulnerable groups, who are more susceptible to illnesses like the flu and other respiratory diseases due to increased humidity and exposure to rain.
She recommended equipping these groups with raincoats, waterproof shoes or boots, umbrellas, and quick-drying clothing.
Fasawe stressed the importance of maintaining a clean environment to prevent mosquito breeding and reduce the risk of malaria; including regular removing stagnant water and covering stored water.
She advised the use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets and keeping doors and windows closed to prevent mosquitoes and other harmful insects from entering homes.
The Secretary noted that diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid become more common due to rainwater contaminating water sources.
To prevent waterborne diseases, Fasawe recommended boiling of drinking water before use at all times.
She advised the residents to always ensure that food is properly cooked and covered to avoid contamination by flies, and that fruits and vegetables are thoroughly washed before consumption.
In case of illness, the Mandate Secretary further advised that professional medical care should be sought rather than self-medication; emphasizing that taking preventive measures is always better than seeking treatment for preventable illnesses.
She encouraged mothers and caregivers to invest time and adhere to the preventive measures to safeguard the lives of the elderly and children during the rainy season.
Her words: “Proper feeding, protective clothing, and timely medical attention are crucial during this period.”
“The government has implemented measures to protect vulnerable groups, such as providing a free insurance scheme, conducting advocacy campaigns on mother and child health, and promoting continuous sensitization on immunization and vaccination, in addition to promoting healthy living and prevent epidemic outbreaks, Fasawe concluded.
