Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
ONE minute you are wrapped in a blanket looking like a sausage roll, the next minute you are sweating like a roasted chicken at lunchtime. Welcome to Zimbabwe’s famous summer-to-winter transition, the season that leaves many people sneezing in the morning, sunburnt in the afternoon and shivering again by supper time!
As temperatures continue playing hide-and-seek across the country, health experts say this confusing weather can easily trigger illnesses such as flu, colds, sinus infections, asthma attacks and chest infections.
For many Zimbabweans, this is the season of “layers”. People leave home dressed like they are going to Antarctica, only to end up carrying jerseys and jackets in plastic bags by 1PM.
Bulawayo resident Nomsa Dube laughed: “You wake up wearing a beanie, scarf and hoodie, then by afternoon you are looking for shade and regretting your life choices!”
But while the weather mood swings may be funny, medical experts warn people not to ignore the health risks that come with sudden temperature changes.
Doctors say the cold mornings and evenings can weaken the body, especially for children, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses like asthma and diabetes. Dusty winds common during this period can also trigger allergies, coughing and throat infections.
Another danger is that many people stop drinking enough water because they no longer feel thirsty.
“People think hydration is only important in summer, but dehydration still happens in winter,” explained a local nurse. “Dry lips, headaches and fatigue are common because many people are not drinking enough fluids.”
Health experts are advising Zimbabweans to dress smartly during this period instead of overdressing all day. Wearing removable layers is recommended so people can adjust to changing temperatures.
Parents are also being encouraged to keep children warm in the mornings and evenings while avoiding exposing them to cold air immediately after bathing.
This is also the season when some people suddenly become “traditional healers,” forcing everyone at home to drink ginger, lemon, garlic and honey mixtures powerful enough to wake ancestors!
Nutritionists say while homemade remedies may help soothe flu symptoms, people should still seek medical attention if they experience persistent fever, chest pains, breathing difficulties or severe coughing.
Experts also recommend eating fruits, vegetables and warm foods to strengthen immunity during the transition period.
Meanwhile, fashion confusion continues dominating Zimbabwean streets.
At kombis and taxi ranks, one can spot people wearing woolly hats with short sleeves, jackets with sandals and hoodies paired with flip-flops.
Clearly, Zimbabwe’s weather is currently testing relationships, wardrobes and immune systems all at once!
