The Ministry of Health on Monday advised citizens to adhere to precautions to stay safe during the summer heat, urging people to drink water to stay hydrated and avoid consuming alcohol.
The Ministry warned that heat can cause sickness and even death, citing the World Health Organization (WHO) which recorded 15,000 deaths in Europe from extreme heat in 2022. Citing another media publication, the Ministry added that in 2019, 365,000 people from nine countries died but did not name which countries.
Minister of Health, Mam Bunheng, said in the announcement that heat may cause sweating, headaches, vomiting, fatigue, muscle pain and fainting. He urged people to stay hydrated and avoid consuming drinks that can cause dehydration, such as alcohol, tea and coffee.
Bunheng also urged people to wear clothes that are protective against heat and to use sunscreen.
He added that family members should regularly monitor those vulnerable to hot weather, including those above 56-years-old, children under the age of five, and the mentally ill because they may need help.
At the same time, the Ministry of Health added that if citizens have any health problems or suspected illnesses, they should seek medical advice.