Starting Strong: Family Health Essentials for the New Year

Zakwan Shah
December 30, 2024
5 min
As the old adage goes, health is wealth.

With rising cases of both infectious diseases and medical conditions, it's all the more important to keep our family's wellbeing in check this new year.

We sat down with Nazatul Amira Hamzah from Primabumi Sdn Bhd to learn more about parents can do to kick off 2025 with a strong start, health-wise.

Nazatul Amira Hamzah, Pharmacist at Primabumi Sdn Bhd

Nazatul is a qualified pharmacist with 10 years of experience in pharmacy practice involving both hospital and community settings.

She currently holds the position of Pharmacist and Key Account Manager at a renowned pharmaceutical company in Kuala Lumpur.

Here are some general but essential health tips from a pharmacist for the new year.

Question 1: My family has just returned to work and school after the Christmas holiday. What steps should we take so we can begin our new year in good health?

Start by setting health goals for your family and yourself.

Ask yourself questions on some important aspects of your lifestyle that can be improved.

The first is eating habits. Important questions to ask are:

• Is your family practising a healthy and balanced diet?


• How much sugar, salt and fat do you consume daily? What can you do to cut down on them?


• How can you increase the intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your meals?

The second one is physical health. Here are some areas you can look at:

• Does everyone in your family practise good sleeping and hygiene habits?


• Do you monitor your health regularly?


• Do you keep your immunisations up-to-date?


• If you or your family member has recently started a new treatment, how well are you getting along with it and are there any issues that you may need to discuss with your healthcare professional?

The next is regarding fitness. Some good topics to broach include:

• How frequently does your family engage in physical activities per week?


• Is there any new activity or fun sport that everyone in your family will be interested in exploring?

Last but not least is mental health.

• How does your family cope with stress at home, work and/or school?


• Have you been practising an open and active communication among your family members?


• Do you have any plans for activities that can help your family rewind and spend quality time together?

Question 2: Is it too early to start planning for health screenings?

Having a basic health checkup is a great idea to kick off your new year on the right foot.

Seek medical advice if any of your family members fall ill after they return from traveling or attending social events.



Your doctor will be able to assess the symptoms of respiratory infections such as influenza (the flu) and COVID-19.

Additionally, it’s good for the adults in your family to check their blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol levels.

These all can be done at any community pharmacy.

Question 3: Can you explain further about influenza and COVID-19 infections?

Influenza and COVID-19 are both highly contagious viral infections of the respiratory tract.

They can pass from person to person through droplets from the nose or throat of an infected person. Typically, through coughing and sneezing.

As many of us know by now, COVID-19 is caused by a type of coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, first detected on December 31, 2019.



On the other hand, influenza is often caused by influenza A or influenza B.

Influenza is more serious than the common cold and may cause an outbreak.

Most cases of influenza are reported during the winter, which is between December and February each year.

Question 4: How do I tell whether someone is suffering from influenza, COVID-19 or a common cold?

Most of the symptoms of influenza, COVID-19 or a common cold are similar, with slight differences.



Fever, dry cough, tiredness, and loss of taste or smell are the most common symptoms of COVID-19.

In contrast, on top of fever and cough, a person who has influenza will often have a runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat, and headaches.

Question 5: Do we need to take antibiotic if we catch influenza or COVID-19?

Antibiotics are only needed for infections caused by bacteria.

They do not work for diseases brought on by viruses such as influenza and COVID-19.

Depending on the severity of influenza or COVID-19, and other factors, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medicine to help clear the infection.

Question 6: How long does influenza and COVID-19 last?

Influenza usually lasts between a few days to 2 weeks.

On the other hand, most people recover from COVID-19 within 1 to 2 weeks.

However, in severe cases, symptoms may persist for 6 weeks or even longer.

Question 7: What are the precautionary measures to protect my family from getting influenza and

COVID-19 infections?

As advised by the World Health Organisation (WHO), physical distancing is the most essential.

Avoid the 3Cs: closed rooms, crowded spaces or close contact.

If you can’t avoid being in those spaces, protect yourself and others by wearing face masks.

If any of your family members feel unwell, remind them to stay at home and not go to work or school.



Ask them to perform self-testing if they develop a fever and/or cough.

It’s also important to adopt a healthy lifestyle by having a balanced diet, drinking enough fluids, getting good quality sleep, and avoiding cigarettes and alcohol.

Keep your immunity in tiptop condition through regular exercise and taking immunity boosters such as vitamin C and zinc.

Practise good hygiene at all times. Wash your hands and use hand sanitisers regularly.

Vaccination is the best way to guard against these infections.

Therefore, you have to ensure every person in your family gets their COVID-19 vaccine and yearly flu shots.

Question 8: I know there are many self-test kits available for COVID-19. Do pharmacies sell self-test kits for influenza too, or is the test only available at clinics?

Yes, there are a number of self-test kits available to check for influenza.

However, they're less common than those for COVID-19.

Some self-test kits can detect all three, i.e. COVID-19, influenza A and influenza B.



Product options and availability may vary across different pharmacies.

Bear in mind that self-test kits are designed to make early detection of an infection affordable and convenient.

A PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test may still be required to confirm the diagnosis.

Question 9: The school holiday season is coming soon. I plan to bring my family on a vacation. Can you suggest what kinds of item or medicine I should bring along?

It’s always great to be well prepared. Here are some useful tips:

• face masks and hand sanitisers


• disinfectant sprays or wipes for disinfecting surfaces


• sunblock (if you’re spending time outdoors)


• mosquito/insect repellent (for forest or beach)


• paracetamol for fever or pain (aspirin or ibuprofen for those with paracetamol allergy)


• antihistamines (for allergies and runny noses)


• decongestant (for allergies and runny noses)


• diarrhoea medication


• medicine for abdominal pain/discomfort


• other medicines or health aids that your family members or yourself might need.

Check with your pharmacist which brands and dosages are best.

In addition, make sure all medicines are labelled properly and are not close to expiring.

Source: Nazatul Amira Hamzah, Pharmacist at Primabumi Sdn Bhd

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

Beyond Ornaments: Unveiling the Significance of Raya Home Decor

Joanna Izzati
April 08, 2024
3 min
Today, we hop on a sparkling adventure into the realm of Raya home decor.

Where the mundane meets the magnificent and the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

Imagine your humble abode transformed into a dazzling display of festive finery. 

It's time to dust off those tinsel tubes.

Don your creative hats, and join me on a merry romp through the whimsical world of Raya decorating.

So, grab your hot glue guns and slip on your cosiest slippers.

Let's embark on this enchanting escapade.

Decorating with Heart and Humour

Home decor serves as the emotive score that weaves together the tapestry of your family's adventures.

Home decor is the magical elixir that counteracts the perilous potions of everyday life.

From the whimsical knick-knacks to the sparkling strands of fairy lights.

Everything is a stanza in the symphony of your shared memories.

The charming DIY ornaments and every other creative flourish are the laughter-filled chapters in the book of your family's distinctive personality.

It's a unique blend of humour, love, and the unmistakable flavour of your household.

A Feast for the Eyes and Soul

The grand banquet of life, where home decor elevates the celebration to new heights!

A tastefully decorated home is the secret ingredient that makes the atmosphere come alive with festive flair.

Imagine a home that's been transformed into a shimmering spectacle of delight.

Where every nook and cranny exudes an aura of joy and warmth.

It's not just about sprucing up the halls, my dear.

It's about crafting an ambiance that resonates with the very essence of Raya itself!

Go ahead and indulge in the grand banquet of home decor.

Let the magic of the season transport you to a realm of pure delight!

As the saying goes, 'A well-decorated home is the key to unlocking the true spirit of Raya!' 

Tradition Wrapped in Tinsel

Home decor is the coveted heirloom that's passed down from one generation to the next.

Much like the exclusive country club of familial bliss.

From the intricately crafted ketupats to the timeless elegance of batik prints.

Each one is a testament to the weight of cultural heritage and familial legacy.

They're like the membership badges to an exclusive club.

Where the dues are paid in the form of shared memories and cherished traditions.

A Joyful Team Endeavour

As the baton of style and creativity is passed from one family member to the next.

Each player contributes their unique flair to the visual masterpiece.

We must seize the moment and embrace the collective creativity of our loved ones.

Decorating for Raya is not a lone hero's journey.

But rather a team effort that brings together the entire family.

Kids get to unleash their inner artists by crafting precious handmade ornaments.

While the grandparents share treasured heirlooms and the stories behind them.

Home decor becomes the canvas for familial creativity.

Where memories and traditions are woven together. 

Sparkle, Splendor, and Raya Radiance at Home

My dear decorators of delight, Raya home decor is not just about adding a dash of sparkle to your living space.

It's about weaving a tapestry of memories, and cultural richness that fills every corner of your house.



May your Raya home be adorned with the most resplendent splendour, the most exquisite sparkle, and the most unforgettable memories!

And remember, when in doubt, add more sparkle!

Motherhood wishes you and yours Selamat Hari Raya with love! Maaf zahir & batin.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

AskMeDoctor! Season 6 Episode 18 | Debunking Myths About Germs: Helping Kids Understand the Facts

Zakwan Shah
March 06, 2024
2 min
We encounter germs in our daily lives all the timel; its practically inevitable.

But sometimes our kids can get the wrong idea about germs that they may learn from their friends or the media.

It’s important to get their facts right so that they don’t continue believing in harmful myths for their entire lives.

In this episode of AskMeDoctor!, we sat down with paediatrician Dr JoAnn Rajah to learn more about how parents can debunk myths that their children have about germs so they can be more informed.

Question 1: What are the main types of germs and common skin infections that children might encounter?

Germs include bacteria, viruses and even fungi.

In children, common skin infections caused by these germs include impetigo and also ringworm.

Question 2: What are some of the common misconceptions that children might have about germs and infections?

Children might think that germs are always bad.

Or they might not understand how germs spread, right?

So, it's essential to address these misconceptions with age-appropriate explanations.

Question 3: Can you elaborate about how we can help our kids understand more about germs?

First and foremost, we can explain how germs can spread through touching, sneezing and even sharing toys.

It's important to keep it simple and emphasise the importance of hand-washing.

Question 4: How can parents recognise and manage skin infections in children at home?

It's crucial for parents to keep a lookout for any skin changes, such as redness, swelling or even oozing rash.

If you suspect any infection, of course, do consult your healthcare provider for proper guidance.

Question 5: What are some preventive measures that parents can take to protect their kids from the spread of germs?

Regular hand-washing is very important.

Proper hygiene practices and teaching kids about the importance of cleanliness are all key factors.

Also, ensuring that they are up to date with their vaccinations can certainly help to protect them against various infections.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

 

AskMeDoctor! Season 6 Episode 17 | Hygiene for Children: Teaching Healthy Habits from a Young Age

Zakwan Shah
March 06, 2024
2 min
Instilling good hygiene practices in children from an early age lays the foundation for a lifetime of health and wellness.

Whether that's washing hands regularly or taking frequent baths, proper cleanliness as they say, is next to godliness.

In this episode of AskMeDoctor!, we sat down with paediatrician Dr JoAnn Rajah to learn more about hygiene for children and how parents can teach these healthy habits early.

Question 1: Why is hand hygiene so crucial and how can we teach our kids to do it right?

Hand hygiene is so crucial because it's the first line of defence against germs.

It's very important to prevent the spread of illness.

Teaching kids to wash their hands thoroughly, especially before meals and after using the toilet, is essential.

It might seem like something very easy, but it is definitely important to prevent infections.

We often take it for granted as well, and especially kids being kids, sometimes they forget these things too.

Question 2: What are the proper hand-washing techniques and when should children be washing their hands?

It's pretty simple. Proper hand-washing involves using soap and warm water.

It's also good to teach children to scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds or so.

A fun way to do this is to scrub your hands while singing to their favourite songs.

Kids should also be reminded to wash their hands whenever they have used the restroom before meals, after playing outside and, of course, whenever they are having a cough or a sneeze.

Question 3: Why is regular bathing so important?

Well, bathing is crucial for personal hygiene.

It not only makes you feel good, but it does help to remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria from the skin surface.

For kids, it also creates a routine that helps them to wind down, especially before bedtime.

Question 4: What are some effective bathing techniques?

When bathing kids, what's very important is to make sure the water is warm, not hot.

Limit your child's bathing time between 10 to 15 minutes only.

Use a mild fragrance-free soap or body wash designed for kids.

Rinse thoroughly after that to remove the soap residues from the skin's surface.

Question 5: Can you tell us maybe some fun and creative ways that parents should use to teach kids about hygiene?

I think the main thing is to just make it engaging.

So feel free to use colourful or some fun soaps or even soap with your child's favourite cartoon characters on it.

You can sing songs while they wash your hands or play games during bedtime.

All of this acts as a positive reinforcement that helps to encourage bathing in children.

Don't forget that children love stickers and also ample praises.

I suggest using bath toys to make it extra fun for your kids.

It's clear that teaching kids good hygiene habits can be enjoyable and an educational experience.

It’s all about building these healthy habits at a young age.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

---

For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

 

How to Choose the Perfect Outfit for Raya

Joanna Izzati
April 08, 2024
4 min
Hello, fashionistas of the Raya season!

Today, we embark on a thrilling adventure through the labyrinthine world of Hari Raya attire.

Imagine the sweltering Malaysian heat radiating like a mirage.

The intoxicating aroma of rendang filling the air, and you, radiant and unwavering, strutting in an outfit.

Outfit that's both style-savvy and comfort-conscious.

Join me on this merry escapade as we delve into the realm of Hari Raya fashion.

Dressing for the Tropic Heat

Oh, Hari Raya outfit selection, how you tease us with your tropical temptations!

As the mercury soars, we mustn't be afraid to shed those heavy, sweaty ensembles.

Embrace the breezy, carefree vibes of the season.

Forget the guilt of fashion missteps.

Instead, let's don outfits that flirt with the wind like a playful lover.

Cotton, linen, and flowy fabrics, we adore thee!

These lightweight wonders are our secret weapons in the war against Malaysia's scorching heat.

They'll keep us cool and comfortable.

While looking fabulous while we celebrate the joy of Hari Raya.

Let's be creative with our Hari Raya looks!

Let's show the world that we may be dressed in traditional attire.

But we're not afraid to add a modern twist and make it our own.

After all, fashion is all about expressing ourselves and having fun, right?

Colours That Sizzle, Not Fizzle

Akin to the art of seasoning a delectable rendang with just the right blend of spices, choosing the right colours for your celebratory attire is a delicate matter.

Hari Raya is a time to embrace the vibrancy of Malaysian culture.

To don hues that not only celebrate the festive spirit but also reflect the very essence of our rich heritage.

Think jewel tones that shimmer and shine like the sun's rays.

Pastels that softly glow like the gentle hues of dawn.

Shades that dance and play with the light like a mischievous sprinkle of magic dust.

When it comes to Hari Raya fashion, colour is the spice of life!

So, go ahead, indulge in a rainbow of radiance.

Let your wardrobe be the star of the Raya celebration.

After all, as they say, 'A little colour never hurts anyone.'

The Art of Modesty

The ballroom of fashion is abuzz with excitement, and modesty is the star of the show!

Swoon over long skirts, palazzo pants, and maxi dresses that are the epitome of elegance and respect for cultural heritage.

Pair them with chic tops, blouses, or traditional baju kurung for a look that's both fashionably forward and culturally conscious.

It's time to ditch the mini skirts and tank tops.

Time to embrace the beauty of modesty in fashion!

Comfort Is the Crown Jewel

Some may think comfort is just a wallflower, but let me tell you, it's the ultimate fashion queen ruling the runway.

The key to slaying this fashion game is finding pieces that make you feel like you're dancing on clouds.

A tailored baju kurung or a flowy kurta with wide-leg pants?

It's like they were made for a comfortable queen like you!

Statement Accessories

It's a battlefield of bold styles and daring statements.

Where only the most stylish warriors emerge victorious.

But fear not, dear fashionista, for your trusty accessories are here to save the day!

Your statement earrings, colourful scarves, and chic sunglasses can turn heads.

They're the fashion equivalent of a knight in shining armour.

Swooping in to save the day and elevate your look from drab to fab!

So, don your armour, grab your accessories, and get ready to slay the fashion game!

Strutting with Style under the Malaysian Sun

Remember that fashion is more than just clothes.

It's a celebration of culture, comfort, and personal style.

Think of it as a lively dance, with every outfit twirling to its own rhythm. 

So, dear fashionista mummies, as you brave the Malaysian heat in search of the perfect Hari Raya look, may your outfits be bathed in a radiant glow, like a sunset over the Straits of Malacca.

And your smiles are as sun-kissed as the day itself.

Lastly, your courage in the face of the Malaysian heat is truly something to be celebrated!

Motherhood wishes you and yours Selamat Hari Raya with love! Maaf zahir & batin.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

---

For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!