Kehinde Adeleye
Ahead of the highly anticipated African Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire, the Lagos State Ministry of Health has issued a health advisory to all residents.
This comes after reports of the tragic deaths of five Nigerians who had watched the semifinal match between Nigeria and South Africa.
In a statement by the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, on Saturday, important tips were provided to help citizens prioritize their health and well-being while enjoying football matches or any other intense activities.
The statement outlined the tips as follows: “Know Your Limits: Understand your physical limitations and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any underlying health conditions before engaging in activities that could potentially exacerbate them.
“Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Crowded poorly ventilated hot environments should be avoided with attention to good hydration. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, and ensure you drink plenty of water and eat nutritious foods to keep your body fueled and hydrated, especially during prolonged periods of sitting and watching the game.
“Take Regular Breaks: Stand up, stretch, and move around periodically to prevent stiffness and promote circulation. This can also help maintain alertness and prevent fatigue. Maintain Good Posture: Sit in a comfortable chair with proper back support and avoid slouching to reduce strain on your muscles and spine.
“Stay Calm and Relaxed: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness to manage stress and emotions during intense moments in the game.
“Be Prepared for Emergencies: Familiarise yourself with the location of medical facilities and emergency exits at the venue, and know how to access help quickly if needed. Contact the Lagos Emergency Medical Team, LASAMBUS, at 767 or 112 toll-free line in case of a medical emergency.”
The commissioner also advised viewing centres to have sufficient medical facilities and trained staff available for emergencies during football matches.
They also recommended that residents seek immediate medical attention if they experience any unusual symptoms or discomfort.
