ISPA Becomes A Threat In Ramadan, Bengkulu Health Office Urges To Avoid Cold Food And Drinks

Acting Head (Plt) Head of Bengkulu City Health Office Joni Haryadi Thabrani (Photo: Antara)

BENGKULU - Maintaining food intake in the month of Ramadan is an important thing to pay attention to. The Bengkulu City Health Office (Dinkes) has also given a special appeal ahead of the first day of fasting.

The Bengkulu Health Office wants the public not to eat cold food/drinks during Ramadan 1445 Hijri to avoid acute respiratory infection (ARI).

"In order to face the holy month of Ramadan, we urge you not to consume cold food during the rainy season, because it can reduce immunity and cause ARI disease," said Acting Head of the Bengkulu City Health Office Joni Haryadi Thabrani as quoted by Antara, Sunday, March 10.

ARI disease is caused by viruses or bacteria that can attack all ages, both from toddlers to the elderly, especially those with physical or weakened body immunity.

In addition, field workers are also vulnerable to being affected and so people are advised to wear masks because they are directly faced with dust and pollution, as well as changing weather conditions.

He said, if the condition of the body or human immunity decreases, it can cause a number of diseases to come, such as fever, flu, and others.

Therefore, he appealed to the public during Ramadan to consume warm food and drinks, not to sleep too late.

Then, get enough rest, eat balanced and healthy foods, and avoid fast food.

This was done because, from January to December 2023 the ARI cases in the region reached 30,719 cases.

Although, the number of ISPA cases in Bengkulu City is quite high, said Joni, the public is asked not to worry because the disease can heal by itself within seven to 14 days.

However, residents must also maintain their health by consuming a lot of water, nutritious food and adequate rest.

"If you have symptoms such as fever, it is recommended to take hot reduction drugs but it is advisable not to take drugs," he said.

This is done to prevent an increase in cases of upper respiratory tract infection in the midst of the dry season that is still happening.