What should we do to stay healthy in cold weather?

When the rainy season ends, temperatures drop in the winter months and viruses are more likely to strike, bringing bronchitis, gastroenteritis, and flu. Vientiane Times asked around for opinions on the best ways to stay healthy in cold weather.
 
Mr Sisong, a resident of Luang Prabang province: Yes, I feel that temperatures are dropping now, especially in the mornings. I’ve seen children in my village get the flu when the cold weather arrives. 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 be greater awareness in order to protect people against illness.
 
Ms Dor, a resident of Xaythany district, Vientiane:  Well, it’s 32C right now but I suppose it’s time to start thinking about the lower temperatures we can expect in the coming months. Children and older people are at an especially high risk of falling ill in chilly weather. A few days ago, I went to the hospital for a check-up and saw a lot of people there waiting to see a doctor. 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 Duangmany Sisavath a resident of Borikhamxay province: I think this is 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 cold weather, so farmers should know how to protect their animals as well.
 
Mr Vannadeth, a government official in Vientiane province: Flu comes with a drop in temperature and everyone should be careful. I’m very worried because some people in my neighbourhood have flu, bronchitis and pneumonia now. I think we need to do a lot more exercise to strengthen our immunity and stay healthy. If you get the flu, 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: Cooler weather can bring many viruses and diseases. Children and older people are at greater risk of illness because they have low immunity. In cold weather people should do more to guard against illness and keep everyone in the family healthy by getting daily exercise and taking vitamin C and zinc supplements. 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 October 24, 2022)