Summer is, yet again, around the corner. The only time most Filipinos would rather stay in the country than fly abroad. Why fly somewhere else when the motherland already has world-class beaches and breathtaking sights?
However, before booking a local flight and packing your bags, it curtails you to take note of the health risks that come most commonly during the Philippines’ hottest season. Unfortunately, some diseases thrive mostly during summer—something you must protect your loved ones from.
According to the Department of Health, Philippine Red Cross, and pharmaceutical company Unilab, the following are the most common diseases in the country during summer. You must learn them and take the necessary precautions to enjoy your summer fully.
Most Common Health Risks During Summer
Skin Diseases
Sunburn and other skin diseases are common during the summer due to prolonged exposure to harmful UV rays. This causes redness, pain, and blisters. The sun is also the harshest during this season. So, aside from sunburn, you’re also prone to get prickly heat and heat rash.
Read more: How to Keep your Skin Hydrated in Summer
Diarrhea
Filipinos consume more cold drinks and food often sold in the streets during summer. Sometimes, they’re stored under unsanitary conditions. The warm and humid weather also provides a favorable environment for bacteria and other microorganisms to thrive. They increase the risk of food contamination, diarrhea, and other illnesses such as typhoid, cholera, and Hepatitis A.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is another health risk during summer in the Philippines. The elderly, young, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions are most at risk. The intense heat and humidity of summer cause the loss of fluid and electrolytes in the body it can no longer regulate temperature. Symptoms of heatstroke include headache, dizziness, high body temperature, and rapid heartbeat.
Fever
Fever and common colds don’t only occur during the cold months. These diseases also pose a risk in the summer due to the changes in temperature between hot outdoor and air-conditioned indoor environments. The sudden and frequent shift weakens the immune system, making most bodies susceptible to viruses causing fever.
Sore Eyes
The summer weather causes the eyes to dry out and become more prone to infection. Spending more time outdoors, people expose their eyes to many irritants such as dust and smoke. Swimming in pools and beaches also increase the risk of sore eye infection.
Dengue
The season may be hot, but mosquitoes can still thrive in the Philippines during summer. Stagnant water from the previous rainy months or improper water storage gives home to these mosquitoes. This puts most Filipinos at risk of dengue. Spending more time outdoors during the morning and late afternoon when mosquitoes are most active also increases the chance of getting the disease.
How to Avoid These Common Summer Diseases
Take the following precautionary measure from DOH to avoid contracting any diseases this summer.
- Apply sunscreen with SPF30 or more at least 30 minutes before going out.
- Use a hat and umbrella when going outdoors.
- Do not stay more than 3 hours under the sun to avoid sunburn or heatstroke.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Only drink safe water and cook food properly.
- Opt for freshly cooked food rather than pre-cooked ones.
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes with unsanitized hands.
- Practice good hygiene.
- Wear mosquito repellant and practice proper water storage.
- Keep your home tidy and free from stagnant water.
- When going on a trip, pack a medical kit that includes paracetamol.
Be aware of the signs and symptoms of common diseases during summer. Most of them appear minor. However, if ignored and left untreated, they can lead to more risks. Sore eyes can lead to blindness. Prolonged sun exposure can cause skin cancer. Diarrhea can lead to other illnesses. And heatstroke and dengue can be fatal.
Conclusion
Filipinos and foreigners anticipate Philippine summer. It’s a great time to explore the country’s breathtaking beaches and sights. However, the hottest season also comes with health risks. These health risks include sunburn and other skin diseases, diarrhea, heatstroke, cold and fever, sore eyes, and dengue.
These illnesses may appear minor, but they pose serious health emergencies if ignored. Preventive measures include maintaining good hygiene, staying hydrated, using mosquito repellent, applying sunscreen, and washing hands. These simple measures can go a long way in reducing the risk of these common summer illnesses.
Also, know when to seek medical attention, especially for dengue and heatstroke. And as you plan your travel for the summer, take the extra step of researching local health risks. Take necessary precautions during the trip, and always prioritize safety whether you’re longing on the beach or having a staycation. Be proactive, prepared, and mindful of your health to enjoy the fun and beauty of the Philippines’ summer. Enjoying the summer should not come at the expense of your health.
