After Tet Holiday, Do Not Let Your Refrigerator Become A Germ Net

After Tet holiday, hospitals often record an increase in cases of acute diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain which requiring hospitalization. One of the common causes is from daily habits in how families use their refrigerators.

During long holidays, A large quantities of food cooked and stored in the refrigerator for later use or to welcome guests by many housewives. Leftover food is often consumed the next day, or even several days later. Moreover, there are dishes that are particularly susceptible to bacterial contamination, such as raw fish salad, lightly cooked seafood, fresh vegetables, and fermented pork rolls, as well as meals served outdoor during traveling time. Food that is stored for too long, inadequately reheated, or beginning to spoil provides an ideal environment for bacteria and viruses to grow, leading to digestive disorders.

Acute diarrhea generally comes with symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. While it can affect individuals of all ages, young children and the elderly are more prone to complications. If not properly managed, the condition may lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and even become life-threatening. Warning signs include excessive thirst, dry lips, fatigue, sunken eyes, and wrinkled skin, more severe cases may involve lethargy, difficulty waking, or inability to drink fluids.

When experiencing acute diarrhea, the most important step is early rehydration and electrolyte replacement. Oral rehydration solutions should be prepared according to instructions, diluted rice porridge, soup, or cooled boiled water are recommended food this time. Patients should not fast, instead, they should consume soft, easily digestible foods. Infants should continue breastfeeding. It is important not to self-medicate with anti-diarrheal drugs or antibiotics without medical instruction. Immediate medical attention is necessary if the patient has a high fever, persistent vomiting, frequent diarrhea, signs of dehydration, or belongs to a high-risk group such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions.

More to food safety practices should be paid more attention such as eat thoroughly cooked food, drink boiled water. Food that has been stored for too long and refrigerated should be avoided. People are recommended to reheat food thoroughly before eating, and maintain proper hand hygiene during food preparation. Do not let a few leftover dishes compromise the health of your entire family.