The Mandaue City Health Office has issued an urgent public health advisory, urging residents to take extra precautions as temperatures continue to rise sharply. Officials warn that the extreme heat can lead to serious health emergencies, including heatstroke, dehydration, and skin-related illnesses, with the city already feeling the intense transition from rainy weather.
Health Risks of Prolonged Heat Exposure
Assistant City Health Officer Dr. Phyllis Bidon emphasized that prolonged exposure to high temperatures carries dangerous consequences. "We can really feel the transition from rainy days to this extreme heat. We need to take precautions because excessive heat and a high heat index can seriously affect our health," Bidon stated. She highlighted that the shift in weather patterns is not just uncomfortable but potentially life-threatening.
Key Safety Recommendations
Dr. Bidon advised the public to avoid going outdoors during the hottest hours of the day, specifically between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when solar radiation is most intense. "If possible, avoid walking outside during those hours. But if you really need to go out, protect your skin, wear light clothing, and use hats or umbrellas because they help a lot," she recommended.
Hydration was underscored as a critical preventive measure. "Drink plenty of water and do not wait until you are thirsty because heat-related incidents can happen suddenly. You may develop a headache or even collapse, so we need to be intentional about staying hydrated," Bidon explained. She noted that waiting until thirst sets in may already be too late to avert health issues.
Recognizing and Preventing Dehydration
Residents are reminded to watch for signs of dehydration, such as reduced urination. Bidon encouraged the intake of water-rich fruits and vegetables while cautioning against excessive sugar and salt. "Too much sugar and salt can worsen dehydration and aggravate conditions like high blood pressure, so the best choice is always water," she added.
Monitoring Summer-Related Illnesses
Aside from dehydration and headaches, the health office is monitoring an increase in common summer-related illnesses, such as skin rashes and chickenpox, which can worsen during extreme heat. "If you notice any skin issues, consult a doctor immediately. Heatstroke is a medical emergency, and the patient must be brought to the hospital right away," Bidon stressed.
For emergency situations, she advised bystanders to assist by applying water to the skin, loosening tight clothing, and ensuring proper air circulation while waiting for medical responders.
Community and School Precautions
The health official called on barangays and schools to avoid scheduling outdoor activities during peak daytime heat. "Please avoid scheduling outdoor events directly under the sun from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. If possible, stay indoors during those hours," she said, noting that direct sunlight exposure during these times can be particularly hazardous.
Enhanced Healthcare Initiatives
Amid the health risks, Bidon announced that 16 nurses from the Department of Health have been deployed to support the city's Purok Kalusugan program. This house-to-house healthcare initiative aims to bring medical services directly to communities, with nurses and barangay health workers visiting households to monitor vulnerable groups.
"One of the major concerns right now is lifestyle diseases such as hypertension and diabetes due to poor diet and lack of exercise. Through house-to-house visits, we can identify high-risk individuals early and ensure they receive consultation and medicines," Bidon explained. The team uses risk assessment tools to detect vulnerabilities to hypertension and related complications like stroke and heart attack.
This deployment is expected to strengthen Universal Health Care implementation at the barangay level while transferring knowledge and skills to local health workers for long-term community benefit, ensuring a proactive approach to public health during the challenging summer season.
