Summer is a time of excitement and relaxation for many, but it’s important to be aware of the potential health hazards that come along with the season. As temperatures rise and outdoor activities increase, it’s common for doctors and nurses to see a higher number of patients experiencing heat exhaustion, sunburns, bug bites, and even food poisoning. However, with some simple precautions, you can easily avoid these common summer ailments and ensure your well-being throughout the season. Here are some easy ways to stay healthy this summer.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial during the summer season and while traveling. Water serves as a powerful remedy for various common ailments that are often associated with these circumstances, including jet lag. By ensuring you drink an adequate amount of water, you provide your body with the necessary tools to heal and rejuvenate. Remember, it is important to drink water regularly, rather than waiting until you feel thirsty, to optimize your overall well-being.
Limit Sun Exposure During the Middle of the Day
Whether you’re scheduling your children’s summer activities or planning your own exercise routine, it’s advisable to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours. Instead, consider making the most of the cooler mornings or rescheduling your outdoor endeavors for after 4 p.m. This will help ensure a more comfortable and safer experience under the sun.
Take Precautions to Protect Your Skin
Consider covering up with protective clothing in addition to applying sunscreen. Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or higher, containing ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Remember to apply it generously at least 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, paying special attention after swimming. While protective clothing offers superior defense as it doesn’t wash off while swimming, don’t forget to still apply sunscreen on exposed areas like your nose and the tops of your ears.
Protect Yourself from Bug Bites
Take precautions by ensuring you are adequately covered if you’ll be in an environment where insects are present. It’s important to note that infants under 2 months old should avoid using insect repellent. When selecting a bug spray, choose one that provides comprehensive protection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using repellents containing at least 20% DEET. This concentration is not only effective against mosquitoes but also provides protection against ticks, flies, and other pests. You can take extra measures to safeguard yourself by treating your clothes with permethrin. By incorporating this additional step, you add an extra layer of defense against bug bites.
Know How to Prevent Food Poisoning at Summer Cookouts
According to the CDC, every year, an estimated 1 in 6 Americans (or 48 million people) get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die from foodborne diseases. Here are four steps recommended by the CDC to prevent food poisoning:
- Wash your hands and work surfaces before, during, and after preparing food. Germs can survive in many places around your kitchen, including your hands, utensils, cutting boards, and countertops.
- Separate raw meat, chicken, and other poultry, seafood, and eggs from ready-to-eat foods. Use separate cutting boards and keep raw meat away from other foods in your shopping cart and refrigerator.
- Cook food to a safe internal temperature to kill harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer.
- Keep your refrigerator 40°F or below. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking (or within 1 hour if food is exposed to a temperature above 90°F, like in a hot car).
Need to speak to a physician for any health concerns during the summer season? Call our Physician Referral line!
Resources:
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/avoid-bug-bites
https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/food-poisoning.html
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