Happy Holi: Holi, the festival of colours, is being celebrated across the country today. The festival of Holi brings color to one’s life and breaks the monotonous routine. However, this time due to increasing cases of H3N2, it has become necessary to take necessary precautions. Viruses can spread from person to person during the festival and it is important to take precautions.
Also, the ‘gulal’ or colors used during the festival may contain harmful chemicals that can cause skin rashes, allergies or irritation. Hence, it is important to take necessary precautions to ensure that your baby’s skin is protected from such problems. Dr. Shalini Joshi, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru, lists down the dos and don’ts keeping this festival of colors in mind.
Keeping in mind the Covid and flu, here are 5 do’s and don’ts for kids and elders while celebrating Holi:
worth doing:
1. If you are planning to play with full flair, apply thick Vaseline petroleum jelly or oil all over the body to protect the skin from harsh colours.
2. Children and elders have very delicate skin so it would be advisable to use natural, skin friendly colors made from flower petals or other natural sources instead of chemical based colors that cause skin allergies.
3. Wear goggles or glasses which will protect your eyes as well as make you look stylish while playing Holi.
4. Play Holi in open areas with proper ventilation and avoid crowded places.
5. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids.
Also Read: How To Protect Your Baby’s Skin – From Eye Protection To Using Organic Colors
what not to do:
1. Avoid using water balloons and high pressure water guns as they can cause injuries, especially in children.
2. Do not share food or drink with others as this may spread the infection.
3. Do not touch your face, mouth or nose with colored hands or clothes.
4. Elderly people or people with pre-existing medical conditions like heart problems, neurological conditions, or heart failure should avoid such exertion which can sometimes aggravate the underlying condition. The chances of contracting flu and covid increase manifold in large gatherings or crowds which are a common sight in festivals. Wear a mask if possible.
5. Don’t force someone who doesn’t want to play Holi or feels uncomfortable.
6. Don’t play pranks on anyone on the occasion of Holi like serving bad food which can be harmful to their health.