SEREMBAN: The Negri Sembilan Health Department has advised the public to exercise caution during the current hot spell to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke, especially during Ramadan.
Its director Datuk Dr Harlina Abdul Rashid encouraged people to consistently drink adequate amount of water, at least two litres per day, from iftar to sahur throughout the night.
“This ensures the body’s water content is maintained. Intake of high-caffeine and sugary drinks should be reduced, and it is recommended to consume more high-water-content fruits like watermelon during iftar.
“People should also reduce activities under the hot sun, work in shaded areas, and use fans or air conditioning to cool down,” she told Bernama yesterday.
She said that while outdoors, people should wear thin and loose clothing, wear hats or use umbrellas, and always be cautious when exercising or engaging in sports by avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun.
Dr Harlina also advised the public to promptly seek emergency treatment if experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
On Friday, Health director-general Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan said 23 cases of heat stroke were reported in Health Ministry facilities from January until last Monday.
These cases were reported in Kedah, Perak, Selangor, Sabah, Perlis and Pahang.
Of the reported cases, Dr Muhammad Radzi said only one, involving a patient in Langkawi being referred to the intensive care unit.
