Health Ministry pushing flu shot even amid heat wave

As Succot approaches, amateur “construction workers” are urged to take care when using ladders and nails, avoid lighting candles inside.

By JUDY SIEGEL-ITZKOVICH
Syringe shot 521 (photo credit: Courtesy)
Syringe shot 521
(photo credit: Courtesy)
While at the same time recommending the entire population over the age of six months get their annual flu shots, the Health Ministry advised the public – especially the elderly and young children – to avoid exposure to the heat during the heat wave expected on Monday.
The ministry urges the public not to remain outdoors during the hottest part of the day and never to leave children or pets in closed vehicles.
Drink adequate water – eight to 10 glasses, unless a doctor prescribes otherwise – throughout the day ad avoid heavy physical activity, including treks on foot, during the hot weather.
Even vigorous bicycle riding or running by seemingly healthy adults on very hot days has in recent years led to heatstroke and tragic deaths, the ministry said.
Sudden weakness, dizziness, nausea or confusion may be a sign of heat stroke.
The individual with such symptoms needs urgent medical attention.
At the same time, the High Holy Days are the sign that the health funds’ flu vaccination campaign has begun. A total of 200,000 people – including the elderly living in institutions and medical personnel – have already been vaccinated, the ministry said, but there are supplies for many more.
People who have chronic disease, are elderly or have weak immune systems are at highest risk, but everyone should consider getting vaccinated, as they can be unable to go to work or can infect others who are at high risk. Going early for the vaccination is recommended, as it takes two or three weeks until the full complement of antibodies are produced in the body, and the cold weather could begin before then.
Meanwhile, as Succot approaches, amateur “construction workers” are urged to take care when using ladders and nails. Once the succa is built, do not light candles inside them to avoid the fires that occur every year.
Electric lighting should be safe and be attached without direct contact with the sides of the succa or directly touching the mats or branches and leaves that cover it.
Use “cold” fluorescent light rather than hot incandescent bulbs. One must never install heating or cooking equipment in the succot.


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