Beware of Three Coexisting Diseases During the Dry and Transitional Seasons

Human Initiative – Dear Initiators, we are currently experiencing the effects of the dry season. These effects include water shortages, air pollution, and adverse health effects. In a press conference on Friday (8/9), the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) predicted that the rainy season would arrive later in October 2023.

So, what are the coexisting diseases we should avoid in facing the adverse effects of the dry season, and how can we prepare for the upcoming rainy (transitional) season? Summarizing information from various sources, here are some insights for our Dear Initiators below:

Diseases during the Dry Season

1. Dehydration threat

The first disease to avoid during the dry season is the threat of dehydration. Facing the dry season, we are more likely to experience dehydration, especially for individuals engaged in outdoor activities. To prevent this, it’s essential to ensure adequate hydration by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day.

2. Atopic dermatitis (eczema)

Another potential ailment during this season is atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema. This condition can lead to skin inflammation, itching, dryness, and cracking. To avoid these rashes and itching, it’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing.

If you experience rashes and itching, you can use cold compresses on the affected area, warm baths, hypoallergenic soap, and moisturizers or creams, as your doctor may advise.

3. Typhoid fever

Typhoid fever is a disease caused by the Salmonella typhi bacterium. This disease, which frequently affects humans, spreads through the consumption of food contaminated with this bacterium. Contamination usually occurs when flies land on the food that humans consume.

Preventing typhoid fever begins with maintaining food hygiene. Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle enhances protection against this disease.

Diseases During the Transitional Season

1. Sore throat (pharyngitis)

A sore throat is a common condition during the transitional season because of throat inflammation. This condition results from bacterial or viral infections and typically resolves on its own. However, it can lead to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and hoarseness, which can disrupt daily activities. To prevent it, you can reduce the consumption of cold food and drinks, increase your intake of warm water, and rest to boost your immune system.

2. “Masuk Angin” (cold-like condition)

Believe it or not, “Masuk Angin” (commonly used in Indonesia to describe various symptoms like chills, nausea, and bloating) is not a medically recognized term. Although “Masuk Angin” is relatively easy to address, it requires consistency in addressing its symptoms. The approach to managing “Masuk Angin” is similar to its prevention, which includes consuming nutritious foods, maintaining proper fluid intake, getting sufficient rest, and taking medication as advised by a doctor if symptoms arise.

3. Acute Respiratory Tract Infection (ARTI)

For anyone, experiencing an acute respiratory tract infection (ARTI) is a daunting prospect. This disease, which begins as an acute infection targeting the upper respiratory tract, can spread from person to person. It is transmitted through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Unfortunately, this disease doesn’t discriminate, affecting not only adults but also infants under five years of age, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

To prevent ARTI, frequent handwashing, reducing the habit of touching the mouth and nose, increasing fiber-rich food consumption, taking vitamins, and regular exercise are recommended. In cases of infection, following a doctor’s advice, getting plenty of rest, increasing mineral water intake, drinking warm lemon water, and sleeping with an elevated head position for comfortable breathing are suggested.

Sources:
https://pusatkrisis.kemkes.go.id/6-penyakit-penyerta-selama-musim-kemarau-yang-wajib-diwaspadai

Waspadai Penyakit Pancaroba yang Sering Muncul Saat Perubahan Musim!

Photo: Pexels by Polina Tankilevitch

Author:
Thariq Shafwan Rasyando
Business Administration, English for Business, and Professional Communication
Jakarta State Polytechnic (PNJ)