Dusty Harmattan Season in West Africa: Tips on Staying Healthy

By Chiwendu Glory Ogbonna. B.Sc. Biochemistry. Freelance writer and DLHA Volunteer. Medically reviewed by the DLHA Team.

Map showing Region of Africa affected most by the Harmattan

Introduction

The Harmattan season is a season in which a dusty wind from the Sahara Desert sweeps through West Africa between November and March each year. For many, it signals cooler mornings and hazy skies, but beneath its calm appearance lies a wave of health challenges. From respiratory issues to dry skin and eye irritation, Harmattan affects daily life in many ways. This article dives into the common health problems linked to Harmattan and provides practical tips to stay healthy and comfortable during this season.

What is Harmattan?

Example of reduced road visibility during Harmattan season.

Harmattan is a dry, dusty trade wind that travels from the Sahara Desert across West Africa. It brings a noticeable drop in temperature, reduced visibility due to heavy dust, and extremely low humidity levels. The air often feels cooler, reaching as low as 9 °C (48 °F) all day, but sometimes in the afternoon the temperature can reach as high as 30 °C (86 °F). It carries fine sand and dust particles, which can linger for hours and settle on everything. Countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Mali experience its full impact, making it a significant seasonal event in the region. The dust particles are also carried hundreds of miles across the Atlantic Ocean and its effects may reach as far as the east coast of North America.

What are Harmattan Health Issues?

1. Respiratory Problems

The dust-filled air of Harmattan can be a nightmare for people with breathing conditions. The tiny dust particles in the air easily enter the respiratory tract, leading to:

• Asthma Flare-ups. Dust, a major trigger for asthma, causes coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
• Bronchitis: Inflammation of the airways, leading to persistent coughing and discomfort.
• General Breathing Issues: inhaled dust during this period causes dry throat and cough even in healthy individuals.

Preventive Tips:

• Wear a face mask when going out during this period to reduce dust inhalation.
• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air inside your home which can help ease breathing.
• Limit outdoor activities or totally avoid staying outside during peak dust periods.

2. Skin Conditions

The Harmattan season’s low humidity, which may drop under 5% saps moisture from the skin, leaving it dry, cracked and vulnerable. Common skin issues include:

Dry, Cracked Skin: Due to dry air during this period the skin is left without enough moisture, leaving it tight, flaky, and painfully cracked.

Eczema Flare-ups: Those with sensitive skin or eczema find their condition worsens during this season.

Dry flaky skin  of shoulder region in black person during Harmattan season.

Preventive Tips:

• Moisturize often with oil-based moisturizers to lock in hydration.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to maintain skin elasticity from within.
• Avoid hot showers as they can strip your skin of natural oils, lukewarm water is a better choice.

3. Eye Irritation

The fine dust particles during Harmattan can be harsh on the eyes, causing:

Dry Eyes: Due to reduced moisture in the air leaving the eyes feeling scratchy and uncomfortable.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Dust particles during this period can introduce bacteria or irritants, leading to red, swollen eyes.

Preventive Tips:

• Wear protective eyewear: Sunglasses or clear glasses can shield your eyes from dust.
• Use artificial tears: They are sterile solutions or gels that you can use to keep your eyes lubricated, and to ease itching, dryness or irritation.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent infections and irritation.

4. Dehydration Risks

Low humidity accelerates moisture loss from the body, increasing the risk of dehydration which can lead to headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

Water-rich fruits (watermelon, oranges, cucumber) that help you hydrate during Harmattan season.

Preventive Tips:

• Drink water frequently. Aim for 2000- 3000 ml of water a day. This will keep your body hydrated.

• Eat water-rich foods. Fruits like oranges, watermelons, and cucumbers help maintain hydration.

5. Infections

With dust particles in the air, the chances of respiratory infections increases. During Harmattan, exposure to bacteria and viruses are high leading to colds and throat infections.

Preventive Tips:

• Practice good hygiene by washing your hands regularly and avoid touching your face.
• Boost your immunity with balanced meals rich in vitamins to strengthen your defenses.

Importance of Public Awareness

Public health awareness during Harmattan is crucial. As much as the Harmattan season is a period that West-Africans are used to, Governments and public health managers in the region should run campaigns to educate people on the health risks that arise during this period and the preventive measures that people can take. These campaigns would enable communities to stay informed and take actionable and preventive measures that can significantly reduce their health risks.

Conclusion

Harmattan poses unique non-life threatening challenges. However, with awareness and preparedness, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from its health risks. By staying hydrated, moisturizing your skin, and protecting your eyes and respiratory system during the Harmattan season, you can reduce the health risks and be more comfortable. Remember, a little care goes a long way in staying healthy during Harmattan!

Resources

1. Eappen A. How to stay healthy during Harmattan. [Internet, n.d.]. American University of Nigeria. Yola, Nigeria. [Cited 2024 Nov 29]. Available from here.

2. National Health Service (NHS). Respiratory tract infection [Internet]. Last reviewed April 28, 2021. [Cited 2024 Nov 29]. Available from here.

3. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Environmental health impact assessment [Internet, n.d.]. Rome: FAO; [Cited 2024 Nov 29].  Available from here.

4. Continental Hospitals. How seasonal changes impact your immune system and increase infection risk [Internet, n.d.]. Hyderabad, India: Continental Hospitals; [Cited 2024 Nov 29]. Available from here.

5. Rasyando ST. Beware of three coexisting diseases during the dry and transitional seasons [Internet]. 27 September 2023. Human Initiative; Jarkata. [Cited 2024 Nov 29]. Available from here

Published: December 7, 2024

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