Every December in Kyrgyzstan, medical institutions prepare for an increase in the number of patients. During this period, emergency rooms operate in enhanced mode, cardiologists see patients without breaks, and toxicologists record a spike in acute cases on New Year's Eve and during the holidays.
Why does this happen? And how can you ensure that you celebrate New Year's not in a hospital, but with your loved ones? 24.kg offers a number of useful tips.
Firecrackers: small fireworks — big risks
Every year in Kyrgyzstan, many injuries are recorded due to pyrotechnics. Most often, boys aged 10–15 and adult men who decide to "check" a malfunctioning firecracker get hurt.
Employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic warn in advance about the risks associated with the holidays: injuries, burns, fires, and accidents become commonplace.
The most common injuries include:
- 2nd–3rd degree burns;
- tears of soft tissues in the hands;
- eye injuries;
- hearing injuries.
Orthopedic traumatologist Marat Mafkuyev states that during the New Year period, doctors expect an increase in visits, especially for injuries related to pyrotechnics. "Most often, we receive patients with hand and finger injuries. This usually happens in the evening hours of December 31 or the morning of January 1, when people start actively launching firecrackers and fireworks," he explains.
How to avoid the hospital?
- Buy pyrotechnics only from specialized stores;
- Do not allow children to use fireworks;
- Do not attempt to relight a firecracker;
- Do not hold fireworks in your hands;
- Launch fireworks in open areas, away from buildings and vehicles.
Food: how the festive table can become dangerous
The Department of Disease Prevention and State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance (Kyrgyz Republic) issued a warning before the holidays: home cooking requires special attention to the storage of perishable products, salads, and desserts. It is important to remember that salads, jellies, cold meat dishes, and canned goods should be consumed immediately or stored strictly according to regulations to avoid food poisoning and intestinal infections.
Overeating and pancreatitis
Gastroenterologists assert that the most common "New Year" illness is acute pancreatitis. The main triggers are fatty foods (manti, beshbarmak, salads with mayonnaise), alcohol, and stress.
Poisonings
Poisonings often occur due to pre-prepared salads and low-quality cakes. Mayonnaise at room temperature creates ideal conditions for bacterial growth.
Medical recommendations:
- Do not store salads dressed with mayonnaise for more than 4 hours;
- Avoid buying cakes "from hand";
- Do not mix different types of alcohol;
- Be sure to drink water.
Alcohol: the main "culprit" of January incidents
Alcohol remains one of the leading causes of injuries and deaths in the country: about 2,500 fatalities annually are associated with alcohol. This indicates that gatherings with alcohol pose a serious risk: from poisonings to traffic accidents and exacerbations of chronic diseases.
Most hospitalizations during the New Year days are related to alcohol-related issues:
- alcohol poisoning;
- hypertensive crisis;
- injuries from falls;
- fights;
- traffic accidents.
What can help avoid troubles:
- Do not drink on an empty stomach;
- Alternate alcohol with water;
- Do not mix strong alcohol with soda;
- Do not drive even after "one glass".
Ice and injuries: consequences of winter walks
Falls take the top spot in New Year's statistics. The number of street injuries, such as bruises, sprains, and fractures, increases.
Traumatologists note that people most often break their radius while trying to protect themselves during a fall. The second most common injuries are head bruises and ankle fractures.
Argen Abdyldabekov, an orthopedic traumatologist from the capital clinic, emphasizes that safety during the New Year days largely depends on the location of the celebration. "If it takes place outdoors or at a ski resort, it is important to adhere to established rules and have appropriate equipment. In case of injuries, it is necessary to seek medical help immediately," adds the specialist.
Prevention:
- Wear shoes with good soles;
- Be careful on stairs;
- Use your phone's flashlight when walking in the dark;
- Try to choose shoes with a minimal heel height on December 31, especially if you will be moving around a lot.
Children: safety around the tree and toys
Every year, emergency services record cases of burns in children, most often from hot tea, candles, and firecrackers.
Pediatricians recommend:
- Secure the Christmas tree so that the child cannot tip it over;
- Do not place candles close to the needles;
- Do not leave children alone in the kitchen while cooking.
When decorating the New Year tree, it is important to place it on a stable stand, and using candles, poppers, and sparklers in the house can be dangerous. It is better to prefer electric garlands and carefully check their insulation so that children cannot turn on the lights by themselves.
Psychological aspect: how stress can lead to hospitalization
The holiday season is not only about joy but also about the pressure of expectations, family conflicts, loneliness, and financial difficulties.
Psychologists note that there is an increase in requests related to anxiety disorders and panic attacks in January. The pressure of expectations, social obligations, and financial costs can intensify stress and feelings of loneliness, especially among vulnerable individuals.
What can help:
- Lower expectations for the holiday;
- Do not try to please everyone at once;
- Plan expenses in advance;
- Allow yourself time to rest.
The New Year is traditionally associated with hope for change and family warmth. Celebrating the holiday surrounded by loved ones is an opportunity to spend time calmly and safely. Following simple precautions can minimize the risk of injuries and visits to medical institutions during the holiday season.
