Amid reports of soaring temperatures hitting record levels, the Department of Health (DOH) issued a warning on Tuesday, April 2, urging the public to remain vigilant against heat-related illnesses, particularly heat stroke.
"Heat-related illnesses are preventable," said Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa in a statement. "Through vigilant monitoring of the heat index, we can mitigate the risks associated with extreme heat,” he added.
The DOH, Herbosa said, is also actively monitoring cases of heat-related illnesses.
The health department underscored that prolonged exposure to such extreme heat indices can lead to heat cramps and heat exhaustion, characterized by symptoms including fatigue, dizziness, headache, vomiting, and light-headedness.
Moreover, the risk of heat stroke, a severe condition marked by loss of consciousness, confusion, or seizures, escalates significantly with prolonged exposure to extreme heat.
In response to these risks, the public was advised to take immediate first aid measures if symptoms are observed, including relocating the affected person to a shaded, cool area and removing outer clothing.
Additionally, applying cold compresses or ice packs to various parts of the body and encouraging the consumption of cool water if the individual is conscious are recommended.
The DOH stressed that emergency services should be contacted promptly, and the individual should be transported to the hospital for further medical attention.
The alarm was raised following reports from the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) noting heat indices reaching as high as 45°C in various locations from March 28 to April 1.
READ: https://mb.com.ph/2024/3/31/dagupan-city-sizzles-at-45-c-heat-index-on-april-1-1
Based on the DOH statement, this trend is anticipated to persist until April 3.
It also noted that PAGASA categorizes heat indices between 33 to 41 °C as warranting "extreme caution," while temperatures of 42 to 51 °C are labeled as "dangerous."
To mitigate the risks associated with extreme heat, the DOH recommends that the public monitor updates from PAGASA regularly.
Preventive measures such as staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcoholic and caffeinated beverages are recommended.
Limiting outdoor activities between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and using protective measures against sunburn such as hats, umbrellas, sunblock, and loose-fitting clothing are strongly advised by the DOH.