The summer season is here! It’s time to have fun under the sun, go to the beach, or hang out in malls to beat the summer heat. While summer is a season of blue skies, long vacations, and exciting adventures, it also comes with some risks. In the Philippines, the dry season starts in March and ends in May. The weather from these months can range from hot to extremely hot. When there’s extreme heat, there’s a higher risk for summer diseases. The intensified heat increased outdoor activities, and exposure to various environmental factors make seasonal ailments more common.
To help you stay healthy and make the most of your summer, we’ve compiled a list of the most common diseases during summer in the Philippines and practical ways to prevent them.
1. Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that worsens in hot weather. Excessive sweating and heat can clog pores, leading to breakouts on the face, chest, and back. Teenagers, those with oily skin, and individuals spending time outdoors are more prone. To prevent acne, wash your face regularly, avoid touching your face, and use oil-free skincare products.
2. Asthma
The hot, dusty summer air can trigger asthma attacks. The combination of allergens, pollutants, and dry air can worsen symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Those with existing respiratory conditions, young children, and older adults must take extra precautions during the dry season. Use air purifiers, avoid exposure to smoke and dust, and always have an inhaler nearby.
3. Chickenpox / Bulutong
Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads more easily during school breaks or in large gatherings. It causes itchy red spots, fever, and fatigue. Children and adults who haven’t been vaccinated are most at risk for this summer disease. Vaccination is the best way to prevent chickenpox, along with practicing good hygiene and avoiding contact with infected individuals. It not only protects the individual but also helps prevent the spread of the disease in the community.
4. Colds
People can still catch colds even in the summer. The symptoms include sneezing, sore throat, and a runny nose. To prevent getting sick, wash your hands frequently, stay hydrated, and avoid close contact with anyone showing cold symptoms.
5. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is often linked to consuming contaminated food or water. It can lead to dehydration and stomach cramps. Children, travelers, and those eating from unverified food sources are more at risk. To prevent it, drink clean water, wash your hands before eating, and avoid food from questionable vendors.
6. Fever
A fever is technically not an illness but a symptom of various infections that can become more prevalent in the summer months. It’s characterized by a high body temperature, usually over 37.5°C, chills, body aches, and fatigue. To minimize the risk of getting any common disease in the summer season that may cause a fever, stay hydrated, rest as much as possible, and avoid crowded places during outbreaks.
7. Food Poisoning
When temperatures go up, food can spoil quickly. This may lead to food poisoning. Food poisoning occurs when you consume contaminated food, often due to improper food storage or handling. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Be mindful of food hygiene, avoid consuming food from unreliable sources, and always wash your hands before eating.
8. Heat Rash / Bungang Araw
Heat rash, also known as bungang araw, is a common skin irritation caused by sweating in hot, humid conditions. It results in red bumps and itching, typically in areas where sweat accumulates. Babies, young children, and those wearing tight clothing are more prone. To prevent it, wear loose clothing, stay cool, and keep your skin dry.
9. Heat Stroke
Heat stroke, a common disease during summer in the Philippines, is a serious condition that occurs when the body is exposed to extreme heat for prolonged periods. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and confusion. Anyone engaging in heavy physical activity outdoors is most vulnerable. You can prevent heat stroke by staying hydrated, wearing light clothing, and avoiding direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours.
10. Influenza
Influenza, or the flu, is highly contagious and can spread quickly during the summer. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches. Vaccination, frequent handwashing, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals are key ways to protect yourself and others.
11. Measles / Tigdas
Measles is a viral infection that can spread rapidly in crowded places. It causes a high fever, cough, and a red rash. Unvaccinated children and adults are at higher risk. Vaccination and maintaining good hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick individuals are essential in preventing measles outbreaks.
12. Mumps / Beke
Mumps is a viral infection that causes swelling of the salivary glands, fever, and body aches. Those who are unvaccinated, particularly children and young adults, are at greater risk. Preventing mumps involves vaccination and practicing good hygiene, such as not sharing utensils.
13. Rabies
Summer means going on trips, and you might encounter stray animals along the way. Rabies is a potentially fatal disease transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. If you’re bitten, symptoms include fever, headache, and discomfort at the bite site. If you are bitten or even just scratched by an animal, seek medical attention immediately. Avoid contact with stray or unvaccinated animals.
14. Sore Eyes
Sore eyes, or conjunctivitis, is an eye infection that can spread easily in crowded places. Symptoms include redness, itching, and tearing. To prevent this summer disease, wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face, and wear protective eyewear when necessary.
15. Sunburn
Excessive sun exposure can lead to sunburn, which damages your skin and causes redness, pain, and peeling. To prevent sunburn, always apply sunscreen with adequate SPF, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Safety Tips to Prevent Catching Any Summer Diseases
Summer is a time for fun, but it also comes with health risks. To make the most of this season, you need to be mindful of your health and take necessary precautions.
Here are some safety tips to help prevent common summer diseases and keep you feeling your best:
1. Stay Hydrated.
Hydration is very important, especially when you’re always outside during the hot summer months. The heat can easily lead to dehydration, making you feel fatigued, dizzy, and at risk of having a heat stroke. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily and increase your intake if you’re spending more time outdoors. Always keep a water bottle with you to remind yourself to stay hydrated. Also, avoid sugary drinks, which can worsen dehydration.
2. Avoid too much sun exposure.
Exposure to the sun for long periods can increase your risk of sunburn and dehydration. Taking regular breaks in the shade is essential to avoid overexposure. If you must be outside, try to avoid the peak sun hours between 10 AM and 3 PM when the UV rays are strongest. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and seeking shelter in cool areas, when possible, can also help protect your skin from harmful sun damage.
3. Wear sunscreen.
No matter how much time you plan to spend outside, applying sunscreen is a simple yet effective way to protect your skin and prevent summer sickness. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply it every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming. Applying sunscreen isn’t also just for beach days. It should be a daily habit, as exposure to UV rays can cause long-term skin damage, even when it’s cloudy outside.
4. Maintain proper hygiene.
Summer increases outdoor activities, which means a higher chance of contracting germs and bacteria. To protect yourself and your loved ones, wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or touching your face. After sweating, shower to keep your skin free from bacteria, and always carry hand sanitizer when washing isn’t an option. Maintaining hygiene helps prevent the spread of illnesses like colds, flu, and foodborne diseases.
5. Practice healthy eating.
Eating nutritious foods during summer not only keeps you energized but also supports your immune system. Fill your plate with fresh fruits and vegetables packed with vitamins and minerals that can help your body fight infections. Avoid consuming street food or meals that have been sitting out in the heat for too long, as these can carry harmful bacteria. Moreover, consuming well-balanced meals will help your body stay strong and ready to handle the season’s challenges.
6. Store food properly.
Proper food storage is key to preventing foodborne illnesses during the hot summer months. Always refrigerate perishable items like meat, dairy, and leftovers to avoid bacterial growth. When you’re out and about, bring an insulated cooler to keep food at the right temperature. Avoid leaving food outside for long periods, especially in the heat. Storing food properly can prevent illnesses like food poisoning, which is especially common during summer.
7. Get enough rest.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of summer, but getting enough sleep and rest is just as important for your health. Lack of sleep can weaken your immune system, making you more vulnerable to sickness. Aim for at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night and listen to your body when it tells you to rest. Quality sleep helps you recover physically and boosts your energy levels for more fun-filled days under the sun.
8. Keep your surroundings clean.
Keeping your living space clean and free from clutter promotes a healthy environment and reduces the risk of disease. Clean up standing water where mosquitoes may breed, especially during the rainy season. Regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home and ensure your bathroom and kitchen areas stay sanitized. A clean home can help reduce the chances of contracting illnesses like dengue and respiratory infections, keeping your family safe and healthy.
9. Engage in light physical activity.
Staying active in the summer is vital for both physical and mental health. However, avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day is also important. Consider doing light exercises in the morning or evening when it’s cooler. Activities like walking, swimming, or stretching can help improve circulation, boost your mood, and maintain a healthy body weight while also helping to prevent summer-related diseases like heatstroke or fatigue.
10. Get health insurance.
While you’re doing everything you can to stay healthy this summer, it’s also wise to have reliable health coverage. Acquiring
family medical insurance in the Philippines ensures that you’re prepared for unexpected health issues, such as accidents or illnesses, that may arise. With the right coverage, you can enjoy your summer activities, knowing you’re protected, no matter what life throws your way.
Stay Protected Against Summer Diseases
As you embrace the sunny days and exciting adventures of summer, remember to take the necessary actions to stay safe and healthy. Staying hydrated, avoiding excessive sun exposure, maintaining proper hygiene, and eating well can significantly reduce the risk of common summer diseases in the Philippines.
However, even with the best precautions, unexpected health issues can still arise. That’s where additional health coverage from Allianz PNB Life comes in. You and your family can enjoy peace of mind with comprehensive health plans, knowing you’re protected against unforeseen health challenges. Explore Allianz PNB Life’s health coverage options today to safeguard your summer and beyond.
