MUSCAT: The Ministry of Health (MoH) stressed the importance of adhering to preventive health protocols to reduce the risks of heat strain and sunstroke as temperatures continue to surge.
Dr Shamsa bint Ahmed al Harthy, Head of the School and University Health Department at the Ministry of Health, said that those most vulnerable groups to heat strain and sunstroke include the elderly aged 65 and above, infants and children under four years old, outdoor workers and those working in enclosed, non-air-conditioned environments, as well as pilgrims performing Haj and Umrah.
She added that several symptoms entail immediate medical attention and hospitalisation, including excessive sweating, general fatigue, headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, extreme thirst, muscle cramps, rapid pulse, body temperature between 38 and 39.5 degrees Celsius, skin redness, warmth, or a cool, clammy, and pale complexion.
She emphasised the importance of drinking water regularly throughout the day, at a rate of two to four cups per hour in hot weather, while avoiding caffeinated and sugary drinks. She also stressed the need to replenish lost salts after physical exertion in the sun.
She called for avoiding strenuous outdoor activities between 10:00 am and 4:00 am, and taking breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas when working in hot environments. She emphasised the importance of wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, using hats, sunglasses, and appropriate sunscreen, staying in air-conditioned spaces during peak hours, and closing windows and curtains during the day to minimise heat entering homes.
She stated that the recommended daily fluid intake in air-conditioned spaces ranges from 3.5 to 4 litres for men and 2.5 to 3 litres for women. She advised those exposed to direct heat or engaging in physical activity to drink one to two glasses of water every 15 to 20 minutes.
Children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses require special care during heat waves. Children should be given fluids regularly and protected from direct sunlight during peak hours, while the elderly need continuous monitoring to ensure they drink water even if they do not feel thirsty, she said.
Regarding workers in outdoor locations, she recommended wearing appropriate protective clothing, drinking water regularly, avoiding carbonated drinks and caffeine, not ignoring the initial symptoms of heat exhaustion, and immediately reporting any unusual symptoms to supervisors. She urged employers to strengthen preventative measures by training employees to recognise the symptoms of heat exhaustion, monitoring temperature and humidity levels in work areas, and providing awareness materials and emergency plans for handling medical emergencies.
Concerning first aid for suspected heatstroke, she explained the necessity of immediately moving the affected person to a shaded or air-conditioned area, keeping them lying down with their feet slightly elevated, removing excess clothing, and cooling the body using cool water or damp cloths. She also advised applying cold compresses to the armpits, groin, and sides of the neck until medical assistance arrives.
The Ministry of Health called on members of the community to adhere to preventive guidelines and monitor health indicators during periods of extreme heat, stressing that prevention and health awareness represent the first line of defence to reduce diseases associated with high temperatures. — ONA
