16 Nov 2021

Public health facilities are on high alert to provide the necessary care and support to members of the public affected by the current excessive heat.

Following advice from the Department of Meteorological Services that the country will experience a significant increase in temperatures ranging from 36 to 40 degrees Celsius in the next few days, members of the public are advised to take precautionary measures to avoid heat related illnesses.

A press release from the Ministry of Health and Wellness says due to excessive heat, individuals may experience symptoms such as heat cramps, heat stroke, heat exhaustion and severe sunburn.

Therefore, the release says individuals experiencing such signs are advised to visit the nearest health facility.

“The Ministry of Health and Wellness therefore, advises the public to take precautionary measures to avoid heat related illnesses by staying well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, preferably water, reducing participation in outdoor activities and avoiding prolonged stay in the sun,” it says.

In addition, the media release advises members of the public to ensure that babies, children, the sick and the elderly are well hydrated and not left unattended in vehicles, even if the windows are open and to avoid intake of alcoholic beverages and caffeine, where possible, as they can cause dehydration.

“People with chronic diseases should take maximum precautions to protect themselves from the heat,” it advises. Furthermore, people are advised to stay indoors or in cooler places, wear light weight, light coloured, loose fitting clothing that will cover as much skin as possible, as well as wear wide brimmed sun hats and use umbrellas, while outside. Ends