DOH: Spend Christmas with healthy activities

Avoid getting sick and be free from tension through the Christmas season by following healthy activities, said the Department of Health regional office in a pubic advisory released lately.

DOH regional director Susana Madarietta reminded that every Christmas activity must be planned first to prevent tension or stress and that it should be coupled with healthful practices, including protecting oneself from sudden changes in temperature. 

Children and adults alike could easily catch colds, coughs and fever during temperature changes so all must be on guard. “If your cough, colds and fever is more than five days, consult your nearest health station,” she said.

Madarietta also reminded the public to have nutritiously-balanced meals at all times. “Prepare a well-balanced noche buena and media noche meals. Make sure that vegetables and fruits are on the table together with your traditional ham and queso de bola,” she said.

She added that one must eat moderate amount of nutritious foods to sustain the daily activities, drink plenty of liquids, such as water and fruit juice, to facilitate good metabolism. She further reminded the public about the benefits of having enough sleep.

Crowded areas are good breeding places for bacteria so Madarietta said that, as much as possible, people should have airy or well-ventilated surroundings, adding that Christmas decors must be environment-friendly and not fire hazards.

“Buy toys with no pointed or sharp edges; nor too small toys that can cause choking. Do not use fireworks and firecrackers during the holidays. One can make some noise even without fireworks and firecrackers,” she said. — Jasmin R. Uy/RAE