DOH warns of health hazards this summer

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Health (DOH) yesterday reminded the public that although summer can be fun, it can also become a health hazard.

The DOH issued the reminder as it warned of a possible rise in cases of heat stroke due to severe exposure to the sun this time of the year.

Health Assistant Secretary Eric Tayag said heat stroke can be deadly and thus, should not be ignored by the public.

Tayag said heat stroke is a medical condition wherein the body temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius or 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

The medical condition occurs when the body overheats due to the hot and humid weather or as a result of too much direct exposure to the sun, and can’t cool down through perspiration.

Heat stroke can cause seizure, unconsciousness, coma, and possibly death.

Medical experts said infants, the elderly, athletes, and outdoor workers are the most at risk of suffering from heat stroke.

According to Tayag, when a person is no longer perspiring, this may lead to heat stroke because sweat cools down the body.

He advised the public to limit the amount of time they spend outdoors and to drink plenty of water to avoid this serious health condition.

He also urged the public to wear thin, loose and light-colored clothes when going outdoors.

“It will also be good to always have hydrating drinks such as water and other cold drinks,” he said.

Wet towels, ice, and other coolants must be placed in key parts of the body to prevent heat stroke, Tayag added.