To prevent foodborne illnesses that could dampen your celebrations, the Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA) has urged everyone to observe proper food safety practices.
The association urged the public to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and clean water before preparing, serving, or eating food. Handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections and diseases, they said.
They also recommended that the public always check the expiry dates on canned foods, beverages, and other packaged products before purchase and consumption.
“Expired products can harbor harmful bacteria and toxins that cause serious food poisoning. When in doubt, throw it out! Road Safety: Do Not Drink and Drive The Christmas period typically sees increased road travel as people visit loved ones and attend various events. Tragically, this season also records a spike in road accidents, many of which are caused by impaired driving.
“We strongly implore all road users to: • Never drink and drive. Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and significantly increases the risk of accidents. • Never drive under the influence of drugs. Both illicit drugs and certain medications can impair your ability to drive safely. • Exercise patience on the roa,” a statement they isued said.
The statement also urgede drivers to avoid speeding, aggressive driving, and unnecessary overtaking.
“Your destination will still be there—arrive alive. Designate a sober driver if you plan to consume alcohol at any event, or make use of public transportation. Connect with Loved Ones: Your Mental Health Matters While the Christmas season is a time of joy for many, it can also be a difficult period for others who may be experiencing loneliness, grief, financial stress, or other personal challenges. We encourage everyone to take time to connect with loved ones, reach out to neighbors, and check on friends and family members who may be struggling.
“A simple phone call, visit, or kind gesture can make a world of difference and help reduce the risk of mental health crises during this period. If you or someone you know is going through a difficult time and needs someone to talk to, remember that your pharmacist is a trusted friend. Pharmacists are accessible healthcare professionals in every community, and we are here to listen, offer support, and guide you to appropriate resources when needed. Do not suffer in silence— reach out.
“This Christmas, let us celebrate responsibly. Your health and safety, as well as that of your loved ones and fellow citizens, should be the greatest gift of all. Together, we can make this festive season a joyful and incident-free period for all.”
Below is the full statement…
However, as healthcare professionals committed to the well-being of our nation, we wish to share important health advisories to ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and healthy holiday season. Say No to Substance Use and Abuse
The festive season often comes with increased social gatherings where the temptation to engage in substance use may be heightened. We strongly encourage the public to refrain from the use and abuse of harmful substances, including alcohol, illicit drugs, and all forms of tobacco products.
The Hidden Dangers of Vaping, Shisha, and E-Cigarettes
We are particularly concerned about the rising trend of vaping, shisha smoking,
and the use of e-cigarettes, especially among young people. These products are often marketed as safer alternatives to traditional cigarettes and are presented in attractive flavours and appealing packaging. Do not be deceived!
The truth is that vaping and shisha may look pleasant and fashionable, but they cause far more damage than many realise. These products contain harmful chemicals, heavy metals, and ultrafine particles that can cause severe damage to the lungs, heart, and other vital organs. E-cigarettes and vapes also contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and can harm brain development in young people. Shisha smoke contains toxic compounds including carbon monoxide, tar, and carcinogens that significantly increase the risk of cancer, respiratory diseases,
and cardiovascular problems.
We implore parents, guardians, and community leaders to educate young people about these dangers and discourage the use of these harmful products.
Food Safety: Handwashing and Checking Expiry Dates.
The Christmas season is synonymous with feasting and sharing meals with family and friends.
To prevent foodborne illnesses that could dampen your celebrations, we urge everyone to observe proper food safety practices: • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water before preparing, serving, or eating food. Handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections and diseases. • Always check the expiry dates on canned foods, beverages, and other packaged products before purchase and consumption.
Expired products can harbor harmful bacteria and toxins that cause serious food poisoning. When in doubt, throw it out! Road Safety: Do Not Drink and Drive The Christmas period typically sees increased road travel as people visit loved ones and attend various events.
Tragically, this season also records a spike in road accidents, many of which are caused by impaired driving. We strongly implore all road users to: • Never drink and drive. Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and significantly increases the risk of accidents. • Never drive under the influence of drugs. Both illicit drugs and certain medications can impair your ability to drive safely. • Exercise patience on the road. Avoid speeding, aggressive driving, and unnecessary overtaking. Your destination will still be there—arrive alive. • Designate a sober driver if you plan to consume alcohol at any event, or make use of public transportation.
Connect with Loved Ones: Your Mental Health Matters
While the Christmas season is a time of joy for many, it can also be a difficult period for others who may be experiencing loneliness, grief, financial stress, or other personal challenges.
We encourage everyone to take time to connect with loved ones, reach out to neighbors, and check on friends and family members who may be struggling. A simple phone call, visit, or kind gesture can make a world of difference and help reduce the risk of mental health crises during this period.
If you or someone you know is going through a difficult time and needs someone to talk to, remember that your pharmacist is a trusted friend. Pharmacists are accessible healthcare professionals in every community, and we are here to listen, offer support, and guide you to appropriate resources when needed. Do not suffer in silence— reach out. This Christmas, let us celebrate responsibly. Your health and safety, as well as that of your loved ones and fellow citizens, should be the greatest gift of all. Together, we can make this festive season a joyful and incident-free period for all.
