DoH warns against heat, water-related illnesses

THE Department of Health (DoH) has issued an advisory to Central Luzon residents, especially those with comorbidities, on the preventive measures against heat and water-related illnesses in the face of the El Niño phenomenon.

Maila Rostrata, medical officer 4 at DoH Central Luzon Center for Health Development Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in Health Cluster, said in a statement that the direct health impact of climate change, including El Niño, will result in increased morbidity and mortality.

She noted that the agency is preparing for these events and is advising the public to stay hydrated as the extreme weather conditions may lead to heat stroke.

“As a general advisory from DoH, before going outside, we need to drink plenty of water. Don’t let yourself get thirsty because that’s when the dehydration sets in. We need to drink a minimum of eight to 10 glasses of water daily,” Rostrata added.

A person suffering from stroke due to the increase in temperature must be brought to a cool place and be allowed to rest. Upon drinking water, the person must be taken to the nearest medical facility for further checkup.

Rostrata cited that unlike potable water that comes from clean water sources, unsafe water intake may contain viruses and bacteria and could lead to waterborne diseases.

“When the climate is hot, viruses and bacteria will increase in number. … We always say that we have to conserve water, but we also constantly tell them that this water should be safe,” she said.

Rostrata also said that containers must also be covered to avoid contamination as contaminated water could cause diarrheal diseases which may result in vomiting, weakness, loose bowel movement, hospitalization, and worse if not treated, death.

The DoH official cited the importance of keeping the surroundings clean as El Niño is also associated with vectorborne diseases that can be transmitted by mosquitoes, flies and ticks. Symptoms may include chills, nausea, vomiting, headache, loss of appetite, and joint pain.

Individuals experiencing these symptoms should immediately seek consultation at the nearest health facility.

DoH is reminding the public to avoid going outdoors during extreme heat, and if needed, must wear light clothes and sunscreen, and use umbrellas or hats.

“We may experience strong UV radiation which is the leading cause of skin cancer and cataract,” Rostrata said, noting that prolonged sun exposure may also cause sunburn, wrinkles, sagging and dry skin, freckles, and moles.