Citizens bundle up as winter rears its head

Health experts warn citizens to protect themselves against prevailing weather conditions

LAHORE:  

The early onset of winter in the provincial capital has compelled citizens to don warmer clothes to stave off seasonal illnesses.

Winter, which typically descends during December, has arrived early this year, posing a threat to the lives of citizens, especially children and the elderly.

A large number of people can be observed thronging shops and flea markets dotted around the city near Railway Station, Mayo Hospital, Shahdara and Lahore General Hospital.

“We were not expecting winter to come so soon which is why we have not purchased or taken an inventory of warmer clothing, despite the fact that people have asked to purchase them,” says Tahir Ali, a shopkeeper at a flea market near Railway Station.

Zidna Ali, one of the customers at the market, says that several shopkeepers do not have a wide variety of clothes. They are selling older merchandise and designs, she states. Ali maintains that despite this, she will have to purchase whatever is available for her children.

Meanwhile, health experts warn citizens to protect themselves against the prevailing dry and cold weather which can cause a multitude of skin allergies and influenza.

Dr Rasheed Khawar, a child specialist, says that children should wear warm clothing and use masks to protect themselves from viral infections and dust allergens. “Young children are more vulnerable to viruses which is why they need to take more care,” he reveals.

“Sinus and nasal allergies are common during this season. Kids need to take special care as these allergies can usually advance into asthma,” he says.

Professor Khalid Cheema, head of the pulmonology department at Services Hospital, stresses on the need to wear warmer clothing and for getting vaccinated for the flu to avoid contracting serious illnesses.

“Humidifiers should be used in rooms as the dry weather is harmful for infants, children and for the elderly, especially if they are asthmatic,” he adds.