Harmattan, the season of dust and cold, is here. It brings dry, dusty winds and cooler temperatures, especially at night. Preparing for its unique challenges, including dehydration and allergic reactions caused by dust inhalation, is essential. By following these simple tips, participants can enjoy their time and stay healthy during this season:

1. ALWAYS USE A NOSE MASK
   Nose masks help reduce the amount of dust entering the airway and filter the air reaching the lungs. Dust can trigger allergic reactions, particularly in asthmatic patients, making it important to avoid exposure. Nose masks also help reduce dryness of the mouth and lips by limiting the direct impact of dry air, thereby minimizing dehydration.

2. ALWAYS CARRY A BOTTLE OF WATER WITH YOU
   Dehydration occurs frequently during the harmattan season due to increased water loss through the skin. This can lead to fatigue and fainting spells. The best way to prevent this is by increasing water intake. Ensure you drink water regularly, even when you are not thirsty.

3. MOISTURIZE YOUR SKIN
   The cold and dry winds can dry out the skin, so it is essential to use oil-based moisturizers to prevent this. Areas prone to dryness include the lips, face, and hands. Ensure you moisturize these areas at least twice a day for maximum protection. If possible, carry a portable moisturizer with you.

4. INCREASE FRUIT INTAKE
   Fruits rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and tangerines, are especially important during this season. Vitamin C helps boost the immune system and protects against infections. It also plays a role in moisturizing the skin, preventing excessive dryness.

5. PROTECT YOUR EYES
   The eyes are sensitive to dust and can become red and itchy after prolonged exposure. Use sunglasses to prevent dust entry and protect your eyes.

WEAR PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
Mornings during harmattan are often cold and chilly, so wear thick, protective clothing to stay warm. As the weather typically becomes hotter in the afternoon, light clothing is more suitable for the day. The best approach is to wear light clothes with easily removable sweaters or scarves for layering. Long-sleeve clothing can also protect your skin from dust.

The post STAYING HEALTHY IN HARMATTAN: DUST MANAGEMENT TIPS FOR JALSA PARTICIPANTS appeared first on Jalsa Salana Nigeria.

Health is defined as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. In line with this definition, it is the intention of the organizers of Jalsa Salana Nigeria to make all attendees comfortable as far as their health is concerned.  In addition to having a dedicated Jalsa clinic staffed by highly experienced medical and paramedical professionals ready to care for attendees who may fall ill or sustain minor injuries during the event, it is equally important to provide general health information. This will help participants prepare adequately for this blessed gathering and take preventive measures to avoid falling sick or sustaining injuries while attending the Jalsa Salana.

The Jalsa Salana Nigeria holds in December during harmattan season on a large expanse of land that is not enclosed but with good water supply, good toilet facilities, good waste disposal system and a clinic to take care of emergencies and other mild illnesses. Therefore, attendee may find these health and hygiene tips useful:

1. All attendees should attend Jalsa with thick clothing and blankets in case the weather is so cold.
2. Attendees should have their nose masks handy.
3. Attendees who are asthmatic or sensitive to cold weather or dust should ensure they keep their inhalers with them at all time during their stay in Jalsa.
4. Members who are seriously ill may choose not to attend, as we continue to pray to Allah for their complete recovery and good health.
5. Members with chronic conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, who are on medication, should consult their doctors for a review before attending the Jalsa. They should also ensure they bring all their prescribed medications with them.
6. Pregnant women in the late third trimester are advised to stay at home to avoid the risk of going into labour during the Jalsa. It is safer for them to deliver at the hospital where they have been receiving antenatal care.
7. Attendees traveling from distant locations may consider breaking their journey to minimize travel fatigue.
8. The aged should attend the Jalsa with a relative who will stay by them at all times and help them navigate the activities at Jalsa with less difficulty.
9. Attendees should eat reasonably from food made available at Jalsa Salana
10. All attendees should use water responsibly and avoid wastage.
11. Attendees are strongly encouraged to use the designated toilet facilities at all times and avoid defecating or urinating in any undesignated areas of the Jalsa grounds.
12. Always clean the toilet after use.
13. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after using the toilets, bathrooms, or visiting any unclean areas.
14. Brush your teeth, take your bath and ensure personal hygiene during your stay in Jalsa.
15. There will be waste disposal baskets all around; please use them wisely.
16. If you see any sharp object on the floor, please kindly help dispose appropriately
17. Visit the clinic only when you are sick and help us minimise unnecessary use of resources and prevent wastage.
18. Be orderly at the clinic and be merciful on others who also seek healthcare.
19. The medical personnel will Insha Allah attend to us all, therefore, let us be patient, maintain decorum and respect instructions at all points of service.
20. In case you observe any lapses or you have a suggestion that can help improve the health and hygiene of Jalsa, feel free to call the attention of the organizers to this, and please do so in a gentle manner
21. Let us all radiate love and show a smiling face, it improves the mind and health.

Wishing you all a happy stay at Jalsa Salana Nigeria

Jalsa Mubarak

About the Author

Dr Taofeek Adedayo Sanni is a Consultant Physician in Community Medicine and Public Health at Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido Ekiti. He’s also a senior lecturer in the department of Community Medicine, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti

The post Health and Hygiene at Jalsa: 21 Practical tips for a safe and comfortable experience appeared first on Jalsa Salana Nigeria.