Harmattan season is here again! Nigeria and other regions in West Africa are experiencing the dry, dusty season.
The harmattan offers a calmer ambience and lower temperatures, but it also poses health risks, especially for susceptible populations like the elderly, young children, and people with respiratory disorders.
A variety of health concerns, such as eye infections, skin irritations, and respiratory disorders, can result from the dry, dusty air. The negative effects of harmattan are most likely to affect people who already have respiratory disorders, including bronchitis and asthma. Externally, it is evident in the dry skin (because of obvious loss of moisture), cracked lips, sole of the feet and even the skin sometimes. Some even experience cracks which becomes ulcerated.
Prevention action is crucial to reducing these hazards. Wearing protective gear, applying moisturisers, and maintaining proper hydration can all help reduce harmattan symptoms.
Air purifiers and minimising outdoor activity during harmful times are two other ways to enhance indoor air quality.
Proactive measures should be taken by the government and pertinent agencies to tackle the difficulties presented by the harmattan season. Increasing public awareness campaigns, raising air quality standards, and offering quality healthcare services are all part of this.
Maintaining vigilance and taking the required safety measures to protect one’s health is essential as the harmattan season progresses. People can lessen the harmful effects of this seasonal phenomenon by being aware of the possible health concerns and taking easy preventive action. People can take advantage of the beauty of the harmattan season while lowering the health risks by drinking enough water, protecting their skin and eyes, and improving the quality of the air indoors.
