PETALING JAYA: The health ministry has detected five cases of illnesses related to the hot weather, including two cases that have led to the deaths of two children.
Health director-general Dr Radzi Abu Hassan confirmed that an 11-year-old had died of heat stroke with severe dehydration in Kelantan on Tuesday.
However, Radzi said the death of a 19-month-old toddler in Kelantan on the same day was not due to heat stroke but “severe dehydration with underlying sepsis”.
In a statement, he said the other three cases of illnesses related to the hot spell were reported in Sarawak – two involving heat cramps and one involving heat exhaustion.
He warned that prolonged exposure to hot weather without drinking sufficient water could be detrimental to one’s health, especially high-risk groups like children, senior citizens and those with chronic diseases.
“Symptoms of illnesses related to overly hot weather include headaches, fatigue, dizziness, muscle weakness or cramps, and nausea.
“Severe cases can involve dehydration, delirium, and falling unconscious,” he said.
With Aidilfitri festivities ongoing, Radzi advised people against holding house visits between 11am and 4pm as that was when the heat was at its highest.
He reminded people to drink at least eight glasses of water a day and to avoid sugary, caffeinated and carbonated drinks as they were bad for hydration.
“Shower often to cool down the body, and avoid wearing thick, tight and dark clothes. Use umbrellas and hats to avoid direct exposure to the hot weather.
“And seek immediate treatment from the nearest healthcare facility if you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms,” he said. - FMT
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