HPA issues advisory over heatwave

Health Protection Agency (HPA) has issued an advisory over current spell of hot weather being felt across Maldives.

HPA has advised the public to refrain from engaging in or organizing any outdoor sporting or fitness events during daytime hours when the heatwave is especially intense, and to opt for sporting and fitness engagements either indoors or during nighttime.

The agency has also advised the public to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during daytime hours when the heatwave is intense, to keep the body hydrated with liquid intake, and to cut down caffeinated drinks.

HPA advises those who venture outdoors during daytime hours to use UV protection sunglasses, and to cover as such of the body as possible using clothing made from light-colored fabrics.

Prolonged exposure to the heatwave can result in the following:

• Dehydration, dizziness, and clammy/cold hands and feet
• Damage to the eyes, hazy vision
• Inflamed skin, small red spots on the skin

HPA has advised those affected with intense dizziness to immediately stop what they are doing and rest at a cool indoors location. The agency also advises members of the general public who feel intense dizziness and muscle cramps as a result of dehydration to seek medical attention.