Director of the Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention Liu Zhejun said the five things to watch out for are respiratory infectious diseases, food borne illnesses, like food poisoning, rabies, accidental injury and acute attacks of chronic diseases.
Though the number of flu patients has dropped to two percent now, from 8 percent in the beginning of 2007, people have still been warned to protect themselves from respiratory infections stemming from the weather change and Spring Festival transport. In addition, epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis, hives, chicken pox and parotitis have entered their peak season with spring.
Experts have asked citizens to be careful when dining out to prevent food borne diseases. Moreover, people have been advised to eat less seafood and wash the fruits and vegetables they eat thoroughly.
Families with pets are suggested to receive injections of the rabies vaccine. Also, as fireworks restrictions have been loosened for 2007, Beijingers should also be mindful of fireworks safety.
Liu highlights the danger of acute attacks of chronic diseases during the holiday. Along with sleep deficiency, excessive eating and lack of exercise, one's blood pressure, blood fat and blood sugar can increase, causing acute attacks of chronic illnesses, like cardiovascular disease.
