IDAI Expert Recommends Warm Bath Immediately After Rain Exposure
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- Indonesian pediatrician Prof. Anggraini Alam from IDAI advises taking a warm shower right after being caught in the rain. She warns that rainwater may contain pollutants and germs, especially in cities, and stresses wearing rubber footwear and changing into dry, warm clothes during the rainy season.
- Experts say showering with warm water after rain helps prevent illness and removes harmful pollutants—essential advice for staying healthy this rainy season.
- Medical experts urge Indonesians to shower with warm water immediately after rain exposure. The recommendation aims to prevent colds, remove pollutants, and reduce infection risk amid the humid, microorganism-friendly conditions of the rainy season.
Members of the Indonesian Pediatric Society’s (IDAI) Working Unit on Infectious and Tropical Diseases advise people to take a warm shower right after getting caught in the rain.
Prof. Dr. Anggraini Alam, SpA, Subsp IPT(K), a member of IDAI, explained that bathing with warm water helps remove mud and dirt from the body while preventing one’s body temperature from dropping too low.
“Taking a shower immediately, especially with warm water, is actually refreshing and helps wash away all the dirt from our bodies,” Anggraini said during a webinar hosted by IDAI in Jakarta on Friday.
She added that children who have been rained on or exposed to floodwater should be cleaned or bathed right away using warm water to help remove mud and other impurities.
Apart from showering, Anggraini advised that once home, people should wash their hands and change into dry clothes immediately. Wearing warm clothing is also recommended. She further suggested washing rain-soaked garments as soon as possible to eliminate dirt and bacteria.
She also reminded the public that if they must pass through rainy or flooded areas, they should wear closed footwear made of rubber. Both children and adults should always carry rain gear including raincoats, warm clothing, and umbrellas during the rainy season.
“When crossing puddles or flooded areas, it’s best to wear closed shoes,” she said. “If possible, rubber shoes are ideal since they help prevent germs and bacteria from entering.”
While playing in the rain might make children happy and is often said to boost immunity, Anggraini emphasized the need for caution. High humidity levels, which can reach up to 90 percent, and lower ambient temperatures can create a breeding ground for microorganisms.
She noted that rainwater—particularly in urban areas—can contain various chemical substances such as carbon, nitric acid, or sulfuric acid from air pollution, all of which can pose health risks.
Anggraini also warned against collecting or consuming rainwater as drinking water, because its mineral content, particularly calcium, is not good for the body and may cause dental damage over time.
Indonesianpost.com | Antara
