A Mother's Life Ph

The Department of Health (DOH) has warned the public about illnesses and diseases caused by the severe heat in the Philippines.

This is related to the report of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) that there is a high probability of El Niño hitting the country in June, July, and August this year, and may persist until the first quarter of 2024.

What is El Niño?
According to PAGASA, El Niño is a weather phenomenon that manifests a climatic condition of extreme heat. This increases the likelihood of infrequent rainfall, which can cause negative effects such as droughts and increased cases of certain heat-related diseases.

How to avoid diseases that can be caused by El Niño?
• Conserve water and make sure the source of the water supply is clean.
• Don’t forget to drink enough water and keep the body well-hydrated.
• Avoid too much exposure to sun rays.
• Use sunblock or sunscreen if you cannot avoid outdoor activities.
• Wear clothes that are thin or have comfortable fabrics.

What are the expected diseases during El Niño?
• Diseases caused by lack of water supply: diarrhea and skin diseases.
• Illnesses related to high temperature: exhaustion and heat cramps or stroke.
• Poisoning, asthma, vomiting, and other diseases caused by eating fish or seashells affected by red tide.
• Cholera, typhoid fever, and even vector-borne diseases such as dengue.

Let’s take care of ourselves, our children, and the whole family. Remember, health is wealth so it doesn’t matter if we pay high electricity bills because of the air conditioner. Don’t let a member of our family get sick. Hospitalization is more expensive!