ILOILO City – With temperatures forecasted to rise as high as 42°C in parts of Western Visayas, the Department of Health (DOH) Region 6 has issued an urgent advisory warning the public of the health dangers posed by extreme heat and urging proactive precautions.
Citing a heat index alert from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), DOH-6 regional director Dr. Annabelle P. Yumang warned that prolonged exposure to such high temperatures could trigger serious health emergencies, particularly heat stroke.
“The region is now experiencing a heat index under the ‘extreme caution’ category,” Yumang said in a press release on Friday. “Engaging in strenuous activities under these conditions may lead to dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke.”
Heat stroke can be fatal, Yumang emphasized, identifying its symptoms as a body temperature of 40°C or higher, hot and flushed skin, confusion, convulsions, dizziness, headache, nausea, unconsciousness, and muscle cramps.
She advised the public to immediately move any individual exhibiting these symptoms to a shaded area, elevate their legs, and initiate emergency cooling measures. These include removing excess clothing, applying cold packs to key areas such as the armpits, neck, and groin, spraying water on the body, and ensuring proper ventilation.
If the person is conscious and able to swallow, they should also be encouraged to sip cool water.
Prompt medical attention is critical, she added, and the patient should be brought to the nearest health facility.
PREVENTION MEASURES OUTLINED
To reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses, DOH-6 recommends:
* Avoiding outdoor exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is at its strongest.
* Scheduling activities in the early morning or late afternoon.
* Staying well-hydrated.
* Wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
* Using umbrellas, hats, and other forms of sun protection.
Yumang also urged local government units (LGUs) to prepare for possible water supply disruptions and to monitor for water contamination in facilities.
“Efficient water use and contingency planning are crucial during these dry and hot months,” she said.
Electricity interruptions are also likely, she noted, calling on LGUs and households to implement energy-saving measures where possible.
RISK CATEGORIES AND RESPONSE
According to PAGASA, the heat index categories and their corresponding safety recommendations are as follows:
* Extreme Danger (≥52°C) – Cancel outdoor and physically strenuous activities such as field trips and sports events.
* Danger (43–51°C) – Limit exposure for vulnerable individuals including the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.
* Extreme Caution (36–42°C) – Reschedule activities to cooler parts of the day and increase water and rest breaks.
* Caution (27–35°C) – Activities may proceed, but heat illness signs should be closely monitored.
DOH’s Regional Patient Navigation and Referral Unit can be contacted at 0939-988-1818 for patient referrals and urgent medical needs.
“This is a time when health vigilance is paramount. Let’s work together to protect our families from preventable heat-related illnesses,” Yumang added./PN
