KOTA KINABALU – Sabah recorded three heat stroke cases from April 15 to May 12 this year, involving two school students and a self-employed woman.
In a statement today, Sabah Health Director Datuk Dr Rose Nani said that the first case involved an 18-year-old male student who was admitted to hospital on April 14 and was allowed home on April 18.
The second case was a nine-year-old male student, admitted on April 30, and allowed home on May 2, while the third case involved a 27-year-old self-employed woman who received treatment as an outpatient on April 29.
However, the location of these cases was not revealed. All the patients have received treatment and have fully recovered.
Rose said extreme hot weather could cause one to sweat vigorously which would cause dehydration.
Among symptoms of illnesses related to hot weather are bodies feeling dry and hot, increased heart rate, dizziness, and nausea, which could cause seizures or fainting.
She said children and senior citizens have the highest risk of experiencing these symptoms.
As such, the Sabah Health Department recommends avoiding extreme activities such as kayaking, cycling, marathons, hiking, and other outdoor activities and shortening the time spent outside the house such as gardening.
Take regular breaks during these activities and drink plenty of plain water during each break. Rose also recommends wearing lighter, brighter, and looser clothes to avoid heat from being trapped around the body and avoid wearing dark, thick, and tight clothes.
“Wear hats or use umbrellas to protect the body from direct sunlight. Don’t sit inside a car without air-conditioning. Cool bodies off with fans or air-conditioners when feeling hot,” she said.
Rose reminded people to get immediate medical attention should they experience any symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
Meanwhile, the Malaysia Meteorological Department reported all districts in Sabah are experiencing temperatures below 35°C today, except for Kinabatangan which was marked as a yellow zone with temperatures between 35 and 37°C. – The Vibes, May 14, 2023
