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The FCT mandate secretary for Health Services and Environment, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, has urged caregivers and mothers to take special precautions to protect the elderly and children during the rainy season.

This, she said would help reduce the risk of communicable and non-communicable diseases that are more prevalent during this time.

In a statement signed by the SSA Media,  Bola Ajao,  Dr. Fasawe emphasised the importance of ensuring the health and safety of all, particularly the vulnerable groups, who are more susceptible to illnesses like the flu and other respiratory diseases due to increased humidity and exposure to rain. She recommended equipping these groups with raincoats, waterproof shoes or boots, umbrellas, and quick-drying clothing.

Dr. Fasawe also stressed the importance of maintaining a clean environment to prevent mosquito breeding and reduce the risk of malaria. This includes regularly removing stagnant water and properly covering stored water. She advised using insecticide-treated mosquito nets and keeping doors and windows closed to prevent mosquitoes and other harmful insects from entering homes.

She noted that diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid become more common due to rainwater contaminating water sources. To prevent waterborne diseases, Dr. Fasawe recommended boiling drinking water before use. Additionally, she advised ensuring that food is properly cooked and covered to avoid contamination by flies, and that fruits and vegetables are thoroughly washed before consumption.

In case of illness, the mandate secretary advised that professional medical care should be sought rather than self-medicating, emphasizing that taking preventive measures is always better than seeking treatment for preventable illnesses.

She encouraged mothers and caregivers to invest time and adhere to the preventive measures in order to safeguard the lives of  the elderly and children during the rainy season. Nothing further that Proper feeding, protective clothing, and timely medical attention are crucial during this period.

“The government has implemented measures to protect vulnerable groups, such as providing a free insurance scheme, conducting advocacy campaigns on mother and child health, and promoting continuous sensitization on immunization and vaccination. Additionally, efforts to promote healthy living and prevent epidemic outbreaks are ongoing, Dr. Fasawe concluded.