MOH records 14 cases of heatstroke as of Friday

In the shade: Farah Ahmad, 33, using an umbrella to shield herself from the sun as she visits Pantai Batu Hitam in Kuantan. — Bernama

KOTA BARU: The Health Ministry (MOH) has recorded a total of 14 cases of heatstroke as of Friday amid the current hot spell.

Deputy Health Minister Lukanisman Awang Suani said the ministry expects the number of heatstroke victims to increase in this hot weather until August.

“Until Friday, there have been 14 cases, but the situation is still under control and can be accommodated in health facilities.

“There were six cases reported in Kelantan, Sarawak (five), and Sabah (three) until yesterday (Friday).”

He said this after officiating the 4th Intermediate Electrocardiogram Conference 2023, organised by Raja Perempuan Zainab II Hospital (HRPZ II) and Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital (HUSM) in Kubang Kerian yesterday.

Lukanisman said of this number of cases, 13 victims have recovered.

One victim, an 11-year-old boy, died in Kelantan.

He said at the ministry level, the top leadership has listened to briefings from relevant ministries, and is prepared to face the prolonged hot weather and heatstroke (cases).

“MOH will cooperate with the Communications and Digital Ministry to disseminate information via television and social media, and people’s representatives have been asked to play a role in spreading the word about the hot weather.

“Currently, the situation is under control, and ministry facilities and hospitals are prepared to receive heatstroke victims and heat cramp victims,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lukanisman said the ministry, with the cooperation of the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), has also identified high temperature areas for quick action.

“Parents are advised not to be anxious about sending their children to school, but they need to ensure they carry enough drinking water and to ensure they don’t indulge in excessive sports.” — Bernama