What’s the best way to stay healthy during sudden weather changes?

The last few days have delivered all manner of weather conditions, from hot to cold and dry to wet. Such abrupt changes put the health of both humans and animals at risk. Following several days of unseasonal weather, Vientiane Times asked around for opinions on the best ways to stay healthy in such conditions. 

Children sit at separate desks at a school in Vientiane.

Mr Thavikhoun Saenglattana, a government official in Vientiane:  I feel that temperatures are always changing now; sometimes it’s chilly in the mornings but is too hot by noon. I’ve seen children in my village get flu and diarrhoea when the temperature dips or rises. As we know, flu is very infectious so parents should consider their children’s safety. It’s not just children but also elderly people who are at risk of illness. Everyone should do more exercise. If you have a cold, you should stay away from others and cover your mouth with your hands if you cough or sneeze. There should also be greater awareness in order to protect people against illness.
 
Ms Mone, a resident of Xaythany district, Vientiane:  Well, it’s still 14C as I speak but not so long ago the temperature was 36C. Children and older people are at an especially high risk of falling ill in cold weather. It’s important to keep warm as well as keeping everything clean when cooking, drinking and eating. We should also wash our hands frequently to avoid flu germs and bacteria. I urge health officials to give us more advice about ways to prevent the spread of disease. Everyone should understand how to protect themselves against infections.
 
Ms Souksavanh, a resident of Borikhamxay province: I think this is a difficult problem to deal with because many people don’t understand what can happen and what the dangers are. I have never seen any officials here provide us with advice or information on this topic. I’m worried about children and elderly people because they don’t know how to protect themselves against illness. I would like the authorities to give us more advice and provide vaccines. We must make sure we know how to ward off illnesses and should pay more attention to our health. If we are healthy, we will be better able to fight off illness. Not only humans but also animals are at risk of becoming unwell in times of changing weather, so farmers should know how to protect their animals.
 
Ms Fone, a government official in Vientiane province: Illness comes with a change in temperature and everyone should be careful. I’m very worried because some people in my neighbourhood have flu and diarrhea at present. I think we need to do a lot more exercise and pay attention to hygiene, especially when eating, to boost our immunity and stay healthy. If you become ill, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. And it’s important that everyone complies with public health guidelines. 
 
An official from the Hygiene and Health Department: Children and older people are at greater risk of illness because they have low immunity. During changes in the weather, people should guard against illness and keep everyone in the family healthy by getting enough sleep, which should be 6-8 hours a day. It’s also important to get some exercise each day and take vitamin C and D supplements. And make sure you drink plenty of fluids. Wash your hands frequently and keep your mouth covered when you cough or sneeze. If you fall ill, you should see a doctor as soon as possible and not just take some medicine by yourself.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
   (Latest Update February 23, 2021)