THE MINISTRY of Health Malaysia (MOH) has advised the public to remain cautious and take preventive measures following the latest hot weather status issued by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia).
In a media statement released today, the ministry referred to METMalaysia’s advisory issued at 6am on May 3, which indicated that several areas in Kedah, Kelantan and Sabah are currently under Level 1 Alert (Be Alert).
Areas placed under this alert level are experiencing daily maximum temperatures ranging between 35°C and 37°C for at least three consecutive days.
MOH said monitoring conducted between Jan 1 and May 3 recorded a total of 56 heat-related illnesses nationwide.
These cases consisted of 47 incidents of heat exhaustion, four cases of exertional heat stroke, four cases of heat stroke, and one case of heat cramps.
The ministry also confirmed that two deaths linked to heat stroke have been reported this year.
The fatalities involved a two-year-old child who was left inside a vehicle, as well as a 42-year-old man who had participated in a marathon in Penang.
According to MOH, both incidents occurred while weather conditions were still below the Level 1 warning threshold.
However, the ministry noted that the main risk factors were exposure to excessive heat in enclosed spaces and prolonged strenuous physical activity, both of which can lead to severe dehydration and disrupt the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
Further analysis by MOH found that 58% of all heat-related illnesses were associated with physical activities carried out during hot weather conditions.
Nearly half of these cases were linked to sports and outdoor activities such as cross-country events, sports training sessions and marathons.
Several other cases involved high-intensity physical training conducted by security and operational personnel.
In light of the current weather conditions, MOH urged the public to reduce strenuous outdoor activities and avoid prolonged exposure to direct heat.
Individuals who are required to work outdoors are encouraged to take more frequent breaks in shaded areas to allow the body to cool down.
The ministry also stressed the importance of drinking sufficient plain water throughout the day, even in the absence of thirst, to maintain proper hydration levels.
Members of the public are advised to use protective measures such as hats, umbrellas and light-coloured clothing when outdoors.
Special attention should also be given to vulnerable groups, including infants, children, senior citizens and individuals with chronic medical conditions, to ensure they remain properly hydrated and monitored.
MOH further reminded the public never to leave children unattended inside vehicles, citing the fatal case involving the two-year-old child.
Anyone experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps or extreme fatigue is advised to seek immediate medical attention.
At the same time, the ministry called on government agencies, educational institutions and care centres to implement suitable preventive measures, particularly when organising or conducting outdoor activities.
Members of the public may obtain the latest hot weather updates through METMalaysia and access heat-related health guidance via MOH’s official health information platforms.— Focus Malaysia
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