A TOTAL 56 cases of heat-related illnesses have been recorded nationwide, including two deaths from heatstroke, from January 1 to today.
In a statement, the Ministry of Health (MOH) said the two deaths involved a two-year-old child who was left in a vehicle and a 42-year-old man who was participating in a marathon in Penang.
“Both cases occurred when weather conditions were below Warning Level 1.
“However, the main risk factors identified were exposure to extreme heat in an indoor environment and strenuous physical activity over a long period of time, which caused severe dehydration and failure to regulate body temperature,” the statement said.
Of the total, 47 cases involved heat exhaustion, four cases of exertional heat stroke, four cases of heat stroke and one case of heat cramps.
According to the statement, analysis showed that 58 per cent of cases of heat-related illnesses were related to physical activity during hot weather.
“Of the total, almost half involved sports and athletic activities such as cross-country, sports training and marathons, while the rest involved high-intensity physical training by security and operations teams.
Among the preventive measures suggested by the Ministry of Health are limiting strenuous physical activity and prolonged exposure to hot weather, and if forced to work in hot weather, spending more time resting in the shade to cool down.
In addition, the public is also reminded to drink plenty of plain water even if they do not feel thirsty to ensure that the body remains hydrated and to use personal protection such as hats, umbrellas, light and brightly coloured clothing.
The public is reminded to seek immediate treatment at a health facility if they experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps or extreme fatigue.
“MOH also urges all parties, including government agencies, educational institutions and care centres to take appropriate preventive measures, especially in planning and implementing outdoor activities to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses,” the statement added. – May 3, 2026
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