Despite the chill that followed it, Memorial Day weekend ushered in the season of lazy days at the beach, dining alfresco and afternoons in the park. But all that fun comes with some risks. Here are some tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for staying safe and healthy this summer.
Guard against sun
To protect against skin cancer, use sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and seek shade from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun’s ultraviolet rays do the most damage. Don a hat and wear sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
Why? While some common forms of skin cancer are highly curable, about 50,000 Americans a year are diagnosed with melanoma, a more dangerous form of the disease. About 8,000 people a year die from melanoma.
Keep bugs away
Spritz on insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin, and wear clothing with long-sleeved shirts and pants tucked into your socks to protect against mosquitoes and ticks.
Why? Mosquitoes can spread infections. Of particular concern is West Nile Virus. People 50 and older are at greatest risk of serious illness from the virus. In Georgia in 2007, there were 50 confirmed cases of West Nile Virus reported to the CDC, including one death. Ticks can cause other infections, including Lyme disease.
Don’t breed bacteria
Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature. Keep raw foods — and cooking utensils that touch them — separate from cooked foods to avoid cross contamination.
Why? An estimated 76 million American suffer from food-borne illnesses each year. More than 300,000 are hospitalized and 5,000 die.
Keep cool
As temperatures soar, drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. Wear lightweight clothing.
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Why? Heat-related illness and death most often occur among the elderly, young children and people with chronic health problems. But even healthy people can fall victim to the heat.
Get a tetanus shot
If you haven’t had one in 10 years, it’s time for a booster shot. As an added bonus, adults younger than 65 also can increase their protection against whooping cough if their doctor gives them a new vaccine formula that protects against both diseases.
Why? Running barefoot, digging in the garden and other outdoor activities increase the chances getting cut by something jagged. Tetanus, also called lockjaw, is caused by bacteria that live in the soil. It is fatal in about one out of every 10 cases.