AUGUST HEALTH WATCH – What to Focus On This Month

 1. National Immunization Awareness Month

Confirm that your children’s and your own vaccines are up to date—especially polio, measles, HPV, and tetanus.

N/B: August is a school reopening month in Kenya and East Africa, making it a key time to boost protection.

 2. National Breastfeeding Awareness Month

Support mothers to exclusively breastfeed for the first six months and to continue breastfeeding up to 2 years with complementary foods.

N/B: Breastfeeding strengthens immunity, prevents malnutrition, and reduces infant mortality.

3. Mental Health Reset for Professionals & Parents

Mid-year fatigue is real. Prioritize mental health by creating breaks in your schedule, avoiding overcommitment, and talking to someone you trust.

N/B: August burnout can affect both productivity and emotional stability—especially for educators, caregivers, and health workers.

 4. Back-to-School Health Checks

Schedule a medical, dental, and eye check-up before school resumes.

N/B: Early detection of hearing, vision, dental issues or growth problems can improve learning and well-being.

5. Sexual and Reproductive Health

Encourage STI screening, safe sex practices, and open conversations on consent and reproductive rights, especially for teens and youth.

N/B: August school breaks and festivals may increase risk-taking behavior. Empowering youth early reduces future complications.

 6. Allergy & Respiratory Care in Dry Season

Use face masks or light cloths to cover your nose in dusty outdoor conditions, and stay indoors during windstorms.

N/B: August dust aggravates asthma, sinusitis, and allergic rhinitis.

 7. Nutrition for Energy & Immunity

Add legumes, iron-rich greens, and vitamin C sources like citrus and guava to meals to combat fatigue and boost defenses.

N/B: Nutritional fatigue is common in August due to reduced intake of fresh foods and high energy demand from heat.