How can we prevent illness by ensuring we eat clean food?

With hot weather on the way, it’s time to think about the increased risk of illness from unclean food, as higher temperatures mean that pathogens proliferate at a faster rate. Vientiane Times asked around for opinions on the best ways to stay healthy.

Ms Chansone Malivanh, a resident of Xaythany district, Vientiane: Of course, we need to pay more attention to what we eat and drink. As we know, it’s difficult to tell the difference between clean food and water and food that may be contaminated. In addition, cattle and other livestock are affected by disease. Lots of people like to eat raw meat, liver and seafood without any concern for harmful bacteria. There are numerous illnesses that can affect people if they eat uncooked food.  I think this is because they don’t understand the causes and effects of diseases and so they don’t take matters such as cleanliness and hygiene seriously. I think the authorities should provide more advice to communities about ways to prevent diseases, and what to do if you are unwell.
Ms Dokkeo, a government official in Xaysomboun province: The hot season brings many diseases and we should be sure to drink only clean water. Food must be thoroughly cooked, while waste should be disposed of properly. We must also wash our hands before and after eating as well as after using the toilet to prevent pathogens entering our bodies via our hands. I think that what we’ve been all doing in recent months should protect us against other diseases as well as Covid. We need to get the right information about ways to protect ourselves and prevent illness from eating contaminated food. The authorities definitely need to do more in this regard and improve sanitation across the country. 

Ms Bounmee, a resident of Luang Prabang province: Many diseases spread easily in a hot climate and it’s important that everyone pays attention to their health and good hygiene. We should clean our homes and be careful about what we eat. We should wash our hands frequently, and be especially careful about cleanliness and hygiene. If you fall ill, you should see a doctor or go to the nearest health facility at once.

Mr Bounthan Saengkhammy, a resident of Naxaithong district, Vientiane: I don’t know much about diseases and I think many other Lao people are also unaware of the causes of illness, especially in rural areas. But everyone should be on their guard and make an attempt to learn more about the sources of illness. The sectors in charge and doctors should disseminate more information about illness and symptoms, and how viruses and bacteria are transmitted. They should also tell people how to avoid becoming ill. People who are well informed about such matters should pass on useful information to others so that we are all better equipped to avoid illness.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update March 3, 2022)