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Health experts advise caution during extreme cold

winter_storm_spring2018.jpg

FILE: A woman walks through a winter storm, Tuesday, March 20, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

(Harrisburg) — Health experts are advising caution during this week’s bitter cold temperatures.

With the wind chill, it could feel as cold as twenty degrees below zero this week in the midstate. Such sub-zero weather increases the risk of cold-related injury.

Dr. Jeffrey Lubin, vice chair of Emergency Medicine with Penn State Health, said the most important step to preventing frostbite is covering up exposed skin.

“The areas that are most susceptible are your extremities, so things like your fingers, or your toes, or your nose, or your ears,” Lubin said. “So, make sure you’re wearing your gloves or your mittens. Have a scarf around to keep in the warmth, and put a hat on your head–make sure to cover up your ears.”

If you have to venture outdoors, Lubin advises wearing layers. However, he recommends staying indoors and avoiding travel, if possible.

Since the very young and very old are most vulnerable to cold, Lubin said it’s a good idea to check on elderly neighbors during the cold snap.

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