National Health Agency: Participants in Mazu Pilgrimage Should Beware of Haze and Dress in Layers

The Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage to Beigang Chaotian Temple has become a national religious event. This year's pilgrimage schedule is set for the sedan chair to depart at 11:55 PM on April 12th, arrive in Beigang on April 16th, perform the 'fire-fetching' ritual on April 17th, return to the temple on April 20th, and open the furnace on May 1st. The temple reported a record-breaking 463,588 registered participants. The Ministry of Health and Welfare's National Health Agency pointed out in a press release today that in past Mazu pilgrimages, there have been cases of people feeling unwell and being sent to the hospital midway. These incidents were related to factors such as large day-night temperature differences, suspended particulate matter from burning joss paper, uncontrolled eating, and high temperatures. On the eve of the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage, they specially compiled "Five Tips for Pilgrimage Body Protection" to remind the public to pay attention to their physical condition and safely complete the pilgrimage. The first tip is "Haze Prevention." The National Health Agency explained that the smoke and dust from setting off firecrackers and burning incense cause PM2.5 concentrations to surge instantly. Suspended particulate matter entering the lungs affects patients with asthma or allergic rhinitis. It is recommended to wear a mask throughout the journey, preferably a medical mask with better protection. If you feel uncomfortable breathing, immediately go to an open area to rest. The second tip is "Body Protection." The National Health Agency stated that long hours of walking during the pilgrimage are a greater burden for patients with chronic diseases such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia. Before departure, one should confirm blood pressure and other physical conditions, take medication on time, and carry regular medications. If any symptoms of physical discomfort occur midway, one should immediately stop the activity and seek medical assistance. The third tip is "Hydration." The National Health Agency said that there have been many cases of devotees suffering from heatstroke or heat exhaustion and fainting in the past. They remind devotees not to forget sun protection and regular hydration, not to drink only when thirsty, to follow the principle of small, frequent sips, and to appropriately supplement with electrolyte drinks to maintain water and salt balance in the body. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or extremely tired, immediately go to a cool place to rest or seek help at a first aid station. The fourth tip is "Replenishment." The National Health Agency stated that when faced with the abundant meals and snacks along the pilgrimage route, the public must eat in moderation, adhering to the principles of "low oil, low salt." Especially for those with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and diabetes, reduce sugary drinks or high-sugar foods, avoid high-sodium processed products, and find opportunities to increase vegetable intake. Do not overeat and burden your body. The fifth tip is "Warmth." During the pilgrimage, one wakes up early and rests late, and may encounter weather changes such as large day-night temperature differences or rain. Drastic temperature changes can cause blood vessel constriction, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The National Health Agency recommends dressing in layers and carrying rain gear and spare clothes. If you get wet from rain, change clothes as soon as possible to maintain body temperature and stable blood pressure. Dr. Jiang Jingyu, attending physician of Family Medicine at Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, added that common reasons for seeking medical attention during the annual pilgrimage, in addition to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, also include foot blisters, heatstroke and other heat injuries, and firecracker blast injuries. If chest tightness, shortness of breath, unconsciousness, or severe wounds occur, immediately seek assistance at medical aid stations along the route or go to a nearby hospital.