Kota Kinabalu: Sixteen cases related to the current hot weather were recorded by the Sabah State Health Department (JKNS) between April 15 and Aug. 1, this year.
Sabah Health Director Dr Asits Sanna said 10 cases involved heat exhaustion, three cases of heat cramps and three cases of heat stroke.
The most recent case involved a 14-year-old male student who experienced symptoms of heat exhaustion.
“The identified risk factor is engaging in sports activities in hot weather conditions. The Department of Meteorology Malaysia has issued a hot weather status for Sabah on 1 August with four districts namely Tuaran, Nabawan, Beluran and Kinabatangan reported to be at Level 1 (on alert).
“Those areas are expected to record a daily maximum temperature of 35 to 37 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days,” he said in a recent statement.
Dr Asits advised the public to take precautions to reduce health impacts.
“Drink enough plain water, reduce the consumption of caffeinated, alcoholic and sugary drinks because they are not good for body hydration, and reduce physical activity during hot weather.
“In addition, monitor children’s health and activities, encourage children to bring water to school and drink water often,” he said.
The public is also advised to use air conditioners or fans to cool down, wear light, loose and light coloured clothes. Also wear hats or umbrellas to protect from the sun’s rays.
He said the public also needs to be aware of the presence of wild animals such as snakes who may leave their habitat to find cooler places and sources of food such as in the house and surrounding areas.
“Extremely hot weather can cause a person to sweat frequently and cause the fluid in the body to decrease.
“Among the symptoms of diseases related to hot weather are the body feeling dry and hot, the heartbeat becomes fast, dizziness, nausea that can result in seizures or fainting.
Children and the elderly are the groups most at risk of health problems from this situation,” he said.
Dr Asits also advised the public to immediately see a doctor for further treatment if they experience early signs of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and if they are bitten by snakes.
