As soon as the Lebanese managed to catch their breath from the COVID-19 pandemic and return to life, cholera bacteria made an appearance through the wave of Syrian displacement and the decay of infrastructure. This bacterium can be avoided by following recommended health measures and paying attention to the water source and its sanitation. However, excessive sanitation to the level of "hysteria" will negatively impact the digestive system and skin.
Specialist in infectious diseases Dr. Mira Jbeili recommends adding two drops of a 5.25% chlorine solution per liter of water to disinfect fruits and vegetables, soaking them for fifteen minutes. In an interview with MTV, she pointed out that any water from an unreliable or questionable source can be boiled, allowed to cool, and then treated with two drops of a 5.25% chlorine solution per liter of water, waiting half an hour before use.
She warned that any exaggeration in the amount of disinfectants will cause skin irritation and burns in the digestive system. She stated, "Using large amounts of chlorine will lead to chemical irritation and health complications; therefore, we recommend paying attention to the quantity and reading the manufacturer's recommendations on the chlorine container." She emphasized that the price, brand, or type of chlorine does not matter, but that it should contain 5.25% chlorine; if it is 12%, the amount used should be halved for each liter of water.
When asked about powdered chlorine used in household water tanks, she replied: "Chlorine tablets have been unavailable for a while, so some use powdered chlorine, and we must adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations to know how much to add to each cubic meter of water."
The first symptom a person may notice if exposed to a large amount of chlorine is skin irritation. Specialist in dermatology Dr. Roy Matran shares Dr. Jbeili's recommendation against using large amounts of chlorine due to the various skin sensitivities it may cause. With the appearance of allergy symptoms, the skin may have already reached an advanced stage of dryness.
Matran advises, in an interview with MTV, to moisturize the skin and use ointments containing cortisone to reduce redness, glow, and inflammation. He recommends that anyone experiencing increased dandruff due to dryness and chlorine use anti-dandruff shampoo and a lotion that includes cortisone to alleviate scalp sensitivity.
With the spread of cholera, citizens should not deny the reality of the outbreak and should adhere to scientific and medical recommendations without falling into "hysteria." If any symptoms arise, they should consult a doctor immediately.
