As the summer season approaches, it is not uncommon for people to get sick more easily. As the Songkran (i.e., Thai New Year) celebration provides a long holiday, many people go back to their hometown or travel. Inevitably, this leads to increased exposure to the hot sun, unbearable heat, and eating out. All these factors can cause sickness.
- Always wash your hands after using the bathroom.
- Keep the bathroom clean.
- Eat freshly prepared food.
- Use a serving spoon to serve food.
Let’s get to know these ailments better, so that we can be better prepared for the summer.
Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is caused by eating food contaminated with germs or toxins. Most food poisoning is caused by common bacteria. If several people eat the same contaminated food, food poisoning can occur in a large cluster of people. Most commonly this occurs with picnic food, shared pot-luck meals, or anytime that prepared food is not properly refrigerated or kept warm. Food poisoning can also occur as a result of undercooked food. Children and the elderly are especially at risk. Symptoms of food poisoning usually occur within 2-6 hours of eating contaminated food. Symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, with headache and body aches occasionally possible. If you experience diarrhea, then dehydration and mineral deficiency are possible, which results in fatigue. Prevention methods include eating food that has been properly cleaned, eating food that was freshly prepared, and avoiding food that has been stored overnight or longer. By doing so, you can prevent unnecessary exposure to these germs.
Rabies
Rabies is caused by a virus that is transmitted from mammals to humans. It is most commonly found in dogs, cats, and bats. It can be transmitted by being bitten, scratched, or licked at an open wound. In some cases, it can also be transmitted from animal saliva that contacts the eyes, mouth, or nose. If not treated, symptoms will usually appear within 15-60 days, but can take up to a year. Once rabies develops, there is no cure, causing death in all cases within 2-7 days of showing symptoms. Therefore, the vaccine must be administered immediately after infection. If bitten by an animal, immediately wash the wound with soap and notify public health officials. Continue flushing with clean water several times and then seek medical advice and vaccination.
Sunburn
Sunburn is caused by being in the sun for a long time. How much sun exposure is required to result in sunburn depends on skin color. Lighter skin tones burn faster. Symptoms include swelling, redness, skin that feels warm to the touch, and a burning sensation. It may also be accompanied by itchiness. The best treatment method is to prevent sunburn by avoiding exposure to sunlight, applying sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing. Hydrating lotions, aloe vera, and topical antihistamines can also be used to reduce symptoms. Avoid applying anything that might dry out the skin in the affected area, such as some soaps. If the symptoms do not improve or become severe, see a doctor immediately.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is the most critical food-borne disease. It may be caused by various types of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and helminths. These pathogens can be transmitted through food or contaminated water. Frequent and watery bowel movements are a major symptom of diarrhea and may even include blood. Diarrhea is often accompanied by vomiting, with severity varying widely from mild to severe. If symptoms do not improve, seek immediate medical attention.
With this knowledge and careful attention to your health, you’ll be able to thoroughly enjoy the Thai New Year celebration! Most importantly, stay wise and don’t enjoy yourself to the point that you forget the safety of yourself and those around you. Wishing everyone a happy Songkran and a safe return to work with good health!
