By Oluyemi Israel
Dr. Segun Adeoye, a public health expert, has urged Nigerians to adopt healthy habits to keep warm and avoid illnesses such as pneumonia, influenza, and respiratory infections amid the current cold spell.
He highlighted that cold weather could also worsen conditions like asthma and arthritis.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday, Dr. Adeoye explained that seasonal changes had brought damp and windy weather, causing unusually low temperatures in parts of the country.
The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) recently warned that these lower temperatures, especially at night and early morning, could last until September.
He emphasized that vulnerable groups—including children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems—should take extra precautions.
To stay safe, Dr. Adeoye recommended wearing multiple layers of breathable, warm clothing, using thick blankets and insulated bedding, ensuring homes are well insulated, and staying physically active to generate body heat.
He also suggested drinking hot beverages, eating nourishing warm meals, taking warm baths, and using heating devices when available.
Dr. Adeoye advised avoiding prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions and encouraged wearing scarves, hats, gloves, and thick socks when outside.
He reminded Nigerians that “prevention remains the best protection” and urged parents to ensure their children stay properly dressed and warm throughout the day and night.