INTRODUCTION

The Harmattan is a dry wind, very hot during the day, and cold at night.  Loaded with dusty particles from the Sahara, it mainly occurs in West Africa. It is between mid-November and the end of March that the Harmattan settles over the whole of West Africa, depending on the country. During this period, habits change, as do lifestyles. Environmentally, the fog caused by the harmattan has repercussions on nature. When the harmattan sets in, everything changes.

What can you do during this period to avoid health problems?

THE CONSEQUENCES OF HARMATTAN ON THE SKIN

The skin is one of the first receptors of climate change. Harmattan causes the skin to dry out, due to the loss of moisture. Lips and the soles of feet are also prone to cracking. The dry atmosphere drains the skin of its moisture. So it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking water.

 HARMATTAN DISEASES

 During the harmattan, there is an increase in respiratory illnesses. The most common are meningitis, tuberculosis, and bronchitis. The dust carried by the harmattan, combined with the cooler nights, weakens the respiratory tract. Windblown dust is a powerful vector for carrying disease-causing bacteria during the harmattan period. This increases the risk of developing an infection.

PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE 

When the harmattan sets in, lifestyles change. To protect your respiratory tract, you must wear a muffler at all costs. To avoid catching a cold, you need to cover up well in the morning and evening. Drink plenty of water to prevent dry skin. Eating vitamin-rich fruit such as mango or papaya keeps the body healthy during this season. To moisturise the skin, we recommend using a moisturising cream such as shea butter or Vaseline. Regular exfoliation of the skin removes dead cells.

CONCLUSION 

Every year, the Harmattan period sets in with its share of respiratory illnesses. During the Harmattan, socio-economic activities are disrupted. The most dreadful thing about this period is the damage it does to health. To avoid dryness, it is recommended to use a moisturiser constantly.