This archive report was first published on 2 January 2020.
As we welcome the festive season, it's crucial to remember that this time of year can be hazardous to our health and well-being. According to experts, the period between December and January is when most accidents, illnesses, and other hazards occur.
Dr. Thomas Mutie of Kenyatta National Hospital advises that we should not forget the basics of staying healthy, such as sleeping under mosquito nets and taking antimalarial drugs when traveling to malaria-endemic areas. He also warns that the festive season is a time when doctors record increased cases of food poisoning, often due to mass food preparation and poor handling.
Another expert, Dr. Susan Gitau, a counseling psychologist and lecturer at African Nazarene University, cautions that the pressure from children during the festive season can be extremely stressful for parents. She advises that it's okay to say no to children and acknowledge their demands in a voice that bears no blame.
Other essential tips to stay safe during the festive season include resisting the temptation to chronicle your activities on social media, going slow on spending, observing traffic rules, not swimming without floaters, not drinking excessively, and not stirring old conflicts.
As Dr. Farouk Abdi, a swimming coach in Diani, warns, 'There are cases where people get overwhelmed by the waves and they die because they wanted to have fun.'
Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Pursue moderation in everything you do over the holidays, and don't miss out on the latest news.
