Take precautions vs heat-related diseases, public advised

(Updated 9:21 a.m.) - With summer now here, the public should take precautions not just against heat stroke but also sore eyes, skin rashes, and even diarrhea.

 

National Epidemiology Center head Dr. Enrique Tayag issued this advice on Thursday as he said these conditions come with the intense heat of the season, radio dzBB's Carlo Mateo reported.

 

Tayag said diarrhea may steam from eating poorly prepared food during outings or even at some fiestas during the summer months of April and May.

 

He also advised the public to avoid exposure to the hot sun especially between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. to avoid heat stroke and other conditions such as skin rashes and sore eyes.

 

Also, he advised Filipinos going on outings to apply sunblock as protection from the searing heat.

 

While he urged the public to drink water and juices, he discouraged them from drinking coffee and other diuretics, which may contribute to dehydration.

 

State weather forecasters declared the official start of summer last Monday, even as Filipinos are expected to go on outings and beach parties during the season.

 

Only last Wednesday, PAGASA recorded the highest temperatures so far this year, at 34.6 degrees Celsius in Metro Manila and 35.5 degrees in Tuguegarao City. —KG, GMA News