Harmattan is a cool dry wind that blows from the northeast or east in the western Sahara and is strongest from late November to mid-March. It usually carries large amounts of dust.
The dry weather conditions associated with the harmattan have various health implications on humans, affecting their respiratory system, skin and eyes. The number of people that come down with cold and cough, as well as a viral infection commonly referred to as flu, usually increases at this period of the year. The ear, nose and throat are always the first to be affected.
The harmattan also triggers respiratory diseases, such as asthma, cough, catarrh, tonsillitis, influenza, pneumonia and bronchitis, even cerebro-spinal meningitis.
Here are few tips on how you can care and protect your children during harmattan:
- Bathe them with warm water
This protects against direct cold, and many children seem to love it! You can also decide to put some Mentholatum on their chests and the soles of their feet at night to stay warm. With every diaper change, you may want to moisturize their buttocks.
- Hydrate
The dry air during harmattan can cause dehydration, so children should drink plenty of water and warm tea.
- Moisturize
Apply a thin layer of moisturizer to children’s skin after a bath and before putting on pajamas.
- Limit dust exposure
Wash curtains, wipe windows and fans with wet rags, and service air conditioners to reduce dust.
- Use a humidifier
The low humidity during harmattan can make it helpful to use a humidifier.
- Inhale steam
Steam can help soothe a child’s nose, sinuses, and lungs.
- Practice good hygiene
Wash hands properly before touching a child and make sure their nails are cut neatly.
- Get vaccinated
Getting a yearly flu vaccine can help prevent the flu.
