Public Urged to Avoid Self-Prescription as Cold Season Sets In



Lusaka, Zambia24 – (14-05-2025) - A leading health expert has urged the public to avoid self-prescription and the unsupervised use of medication as the cold season takes hold, warning that such practices could lead to serious health complications.

Dr. Amit Singh, Dean of the School of Medicine at Texila American University Zambia, has called on members of the public to seek professional medical care for symptoms such as a persistent cough, fever, or flu—particularly when they last more than two weeks.

“The cold weather increases the risk of respiratory infections, and we are particularly concerned about people resorting to self-medication instead of visiting health facilities,” Dr. Singh said in an interview. “Self-prescription can be dangerous because it may not only mask serious underlying conditions such as Tuberculosis, but also contribute to drug resistance, which makes future treatment more difficult.”

Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and proper treatment, especially for individuals already diagnosed with TB or those experiencing prolonged respiratory symptoms.

He also advised the public to adopt preventive measures to maintain their health during the colder months. “It is crucial for everyone—especially those with chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes—to take extra precautions by keeping warm, wearing suitable clothing, and regularly monitoring their body temperature,” he said. “Cold weather can exacerbate pre-existing conditions due to poor circulation and, if left unmanaged, may result in complications.”

Dr. Singh urged Zambians to avoid risky health practices and instead prioritize their well-being by consulting qualified healthcare professionals.

“Let us all take responsibility for our health by avoiding self-medication and seeking timely medical advice when unwell,” he concluded.

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