PETALING JAYA: Two deaths and 56 heat-related illnesses have been reported nationwide this year, the Health Ministry revealed.
It said 58% of the cases were linked to physical activity during hot weather.
“Of this, nearly half involved sports and athletic activities such as cross-country running, sports training and marathons.
“The rest involved high-intensity physical training by security and operational personnel,” it said in a statement yesterday.
The ministry said of the cases reported as of yesterday, 47 were due to heat exhaustion, four to exertional heatstroke, four to heatstroke, and one to heat cramps.
“The two deaths were due to heatstroke. One case involved a two-year-old who was left inside a vehicle, and the other a 42-year-old man who took part in a marathon in Penang.
“Both cases occurred when weather conditions were below Alert Level 1.
“However, the main risk factors identified were exposure to extreme heat in enclosed environments and prolonged strenuous physical activity, which led to severe dehydration and failure of the body’s temperature regulation,” the statement read.
The ministry advised the public to remain vigilant and take preventive measures during hot weather, such as limiting strenuous physical activity and prolonged outdoor exposure.
“If you must work under hot conditions, increase time spent resting in shaded areas to cool the body.
“The public is also advised to drink lots of water, even if they do not feel thirsty, to ensure the body remains hydrated.
“Use protective items such as hats and umbrellas while wearing light, loose and light-coloured clothing,” it said.
The ministry also reminded the public to ensure high-risk groups such as infants, children, the elderly and individuals with chronic illnesses received sufficient hydration and were monitored.
“Avoid leaving children unattended inside vehicles and seek immediate treatment at a healthcare facility if you experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps or extreme fatigue.”
As at 4pm yesterday, five localities nationwide were placed under a Level 1 heatwave alert.
In the peninsula, the areas were Jeli, Pasir Mas and Kuala Krai in Kelantan, and Padang Terap in Kedah. The other locality issued a Level 1 alert was Telupid in Sabah. Level 1 alerts are issued when the daily maximum temperature reaches between 35°C and 37°C for at least three consecutive days.
