Halloween is just around the corner! However, things may get much more complicated given the current epidemic. The following are things that you need to be aware of and watch out for to participate in Halloween.
Stay away from the allergens
Candies or sweets are indispensable for Halloween. However, doctors have noticed a surge in deadly allergies in kids during Halloween, Easter, Chinese New Year, and other festivals.
The reason behind the surge may be that people who dispense candies and other treats for kids may be unaware of the kid’s allergies – allergies to nuts, peanuts, or certain ingredients of the sweets. What’s worse, some candies or sweets don’t have advisory labeling for allergens.
So, do read the ingredient lists and be on the lookout for the signs of a severe allergic reaction:
- Lightheadedness
- Fainting
- Wheezing
- A fast heart rate
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing and even
- Loss of consciousness
Keep the food clean and safe
Food poisoning is always a concern during Halloween. For example, raw or contaminated meats or ready-to-use foods are the usual source of infectious agents. If the foods stored in the refrigerator are handled improperly, germs could grow and cause food poisoning.
Although the exact germs that cause food poisoning may vary, the symptoms of food poisoning cases are similar. Common symptoms include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps and
- Fever
It’s necessary to go to the hospital when you have severe abdominal cramps, a very high fever (>100.4F), bloody stools, severe dehydration, blurry vision, or tingling sensation in the extremities.
The bottom line
With the upcoming winter season, it seems that another wave of this epidemic is about to come. Given that the virus is highly contagious and spread from person to person, it is imperative to take measures for prevention. Specifically, wash your hands frequently with hand sanitizers and maintain social distance. For those with or exposed to the virus or with a history of chronic diseases (chronic kidney disease, diabetes, etc.), it is not advised to attend or host get-together celebrations.
The CDC also recommends wearing a mask as part of the holiday costume. Have a Fun and Safe Halloween.
