Summer in Houston, Texas can be a wonderful time to enjoy outdoor activities, but it’s important to remember that there are unique health and safety risks that come with spending time outside in this climate. In this blog post, we’ll cover some of the most common summer health and safety concerns specific to Houston, and provide tips on how to stay safe and healthy all summer long.

Mosquitoes and West Nile Virus

Houston is notorious for its mosquito population, and they can carry diseases such as West Nile virus, which can cause serious health problems. Here are some tips to help prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of West Nile virus:

• Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants when possible, especially during dawn and dusk hours when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Get rid of standing water around your home, as it can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Sun Safety

Houston has a humid subtropical climate, which means it can get extremely hot and humid in the summer. Sunburns can be painful and increase your risk of skin cancer, so it’s important to take precautions to protect your skin from the sun:

• Wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
• Avoid being outdoors during peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Water Activities and Safety

Houston is home to many outdoor water activities such as swimming and boating, but it’s important to practice proper safety precautions to avoid accidents and injuries. Here are some tips to help keep you and your family safe while enjoying water activities:

• Always supervise children when they’re in or around water.
• Wear a life jacket when boating or participating in other water activities.
• Know how to swim and teach your children to swim.
• Be cautious of strong currents and rip tides when swimming in the Gulf of Mexico.

Other Summer Activities

Summer in Houston is a time for festivals, barbecues, and other outdoor activities. However, the heat and humidity can take a toll on your body, so it’s important to stay hydrated and take breaks when needed:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially when outdoors and in the sun.
• Take breaks in the shade or indoors to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Wear breathable and lightweight clothing to stay cool.
• Be cautious of outdoor physical activities in extreme heat and humidity, and avoid them during the hottest parts of the day.

In conclusion, summer in Houston can be a fun and enjoyable time, but it’s important to take precautions to stay safe and healthy. By following these tips and taking care of yourself, you can enjoy all that Houston has to offer without putting yourself or your family at risk. If you have any questions or concerns about summer health and safety in Houston, don’t hesitate to contact our medical clinic for more information.