Zambia Medical Association President, Masiku Phiri, has urged members of the public to take precautions against heatstroke, warning that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can affect the normal functioning of the human body.
In an exclusive interview with the media in Lusaka, Dr Phiri said the loss of fluids through excessive evaporation during periods of high temperatures could cause body weakness and fatigue, affecting people’s ability to perform their daily activities.
In light of the high temperatures currently being experienced in the country, Dr Phiri has advised members of the public to seek shelter in cool or shaded places, drink adequate amounts of water and protect themselves from direct sunlight.
He has identified children, elderly people and individuals with terminal illnesses as groups requiring particular protection.
“The elderly, the children and those that have got terminal illnesses, they need to be protected during this time,” he said, urging the public to ensure that vulnerable people remain in cool or shaded places and drink adequate water.
Dr Phiri has further cautioned the general public to watch out for dizziness, fatigue, body weakness and general body sickness, advising those experiencing persistent symptoms to seek medical attention.
Meanwhile, Public Health Specialist and Health Policy Advocate, Oliver Kaoma, has said extreme heat exposure could lead to excessive sweating and the loss of body fluids, causing a reduction in blood volume and increasing the risk of serious health complications.
Dr Kaoma says heatstroke is a medical emergency that can disrupt brain function, with affected individuals potentially experiencing confusion, unusual behaviour, seizures and loss of consciousness.
“Basically, it’s a medical emergency, and it’s as a result of disruption in brain function due to extreme exposure to heat,” Dr Kaoma said.
Dr Kaoma advised that people should work in cool environments, drink adequate amounts of safe water and ensure that workplaces, schools and trading areas provide adequate shade and ventilation.
He has called for improved preparedness within the health system, urging coordination between the Zambia Meteorological Department (ZMD) and the Ministry of Health to ensure health facilities are alerted when extreme temperatures are expected.
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