Staying Healthy in Florida Heat: Your August Wellness Guide
As August rolls in, Florida is at its steamiest—bringing intense heat, high humidity….and the start of a new school year. Whether you're juggling back-to-school prep or just trying to beat the summer burnout, now is the perfect time to check in on your health. Here’s what you should be focusing on this August in the Sunshine State:
Beat the Heat: Hydration & Heat Illness Prevention
August is one of Florida’s hottest months, with temperatures regularly soaring into the 90s. Heat-related illnesses like dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke are real risks—especially for children, older adults, and those who work or exercise outdoors.
Wellness Tips:
- Hydrate frequently—aim for at least 8–10 cups of water a day (more if you're sweating).
- Avoid peak sun hours (10am–4pm) and opt for indoor or early morning workouts.
- Dress in lightweight, breathable fabrics.
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, or confusion.
Back-to-School Health Prep
August is also National Immunization Awareness Month, making it an ideal time to update your family's vaccinations and physicals before the school year begins. Florida schools require immunizations for kindergarten and 7th-grade entry.
Back-to-School Checklist:
- Schedule wellness checkups and sports physicals.
- Update immunizations (DTaP, MMR, HPV, meningococcal, etc.).
- Stock up on healthy lunch options and start resetting sleep routines early.
- Discuss screen time and mental health habits for a balanced transition.
Protect Kids’ Vision
August is also Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month. Good vision is key to learning, yet many children may not realize they have trouble seeing.
What to do:
- Schedule a comprehensive eye exam, not just a vision screening.
- Encourage kids to wear sunglasses outdoors to protect against UV damage.
- Monitor for signs like squinting, headaches, or complaints about reading.
Support Your Skin
The Florida sun can wreak havoc on your skin—especially in August. Combine sweat, sunscreen, and sun exposure, and it’s a recipe for clogged pores, sunburn, or skin irritation.
Quick Skin Tips:
- Wash your face morning and night, especially after sweating.
- Use a non-comedogenic sunscreen (SPF 30+).
- Stay in the shade when possible and reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.
August may be hot and hectic, but it’s also a great time to reset and refocus on your health. By staying cool, staying current on checkups, and preparing your family for a strong start to the school year, you’ll set yourself up for a healthy transition into fall.