A sharp temperature drop following an unusually warm September and October has brought rain to Baku and snow to parts of Azerbaijan, prompting a doctor to warn that children, older adults and people with chronic illnesses may face higher health risks.
Physician Sevinj Musayeva told Globalinfo.az that rapid weather changes require particular attention from older people, parents of young children and patients with asthma or other respiratory diseases.
People with cardiovascular disease can also be sensitive to temperature changes, she said. Cold and damp conditions may intensify joint pain in some people, while seasonal respiratory infections tend to spread more widely during this period.
Musayeva advised residents to dress for the weather, especially in the morning and evening, and to avoid remaining in wet clothing after rain. She also recommended a balanced diet, adequate fluids and sufficient sleep.
People with chronic illnesses should continue treatment prescribed by their doctors, she said. Frequent hand-washing and limiting close contact with people who are ill can help reduce exposure to respiratory infections.
Parents and caregivers should pay particular attention to how children and older adults are dressed, Musayeva said. Anyone who develops symptoms should contact a doctor rather than self-medicate.
High fever, shortness of breath or chest pain require urgent medical attention, she added.
Originally published in Russian by Vesti Baku.