People told to stay hydrated over long, hot summer months
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The Public Health Ministry has warned the public about the dangers of heat stroke during summer, with those most at risk such as the elderly and outdoor workers advised to stay hydrated.
Bureau of Epidemiology statistics from 2003-2013 showed that 196 people – most of whom were the elderly, followed by outdoor workers, the chronically ill and alcohol drinkers – died from heat stroke. In March and April in 2013, 20 people – mostly men over 60 – died.
Disease Control Department chief Dr Sopon Mekthon said hot weather could affect people’s health at four mild to severe levels – from sunburn and heat cramp to heat exhaustion and heart stroke.
Sopon said heat stroke was the result of the body temperature rising above 40 degrees Celsius, and other symptoms included a throbbing headache; lack of sweat; dizziness; disorientation; rapid and shallow breathing; an abnormal heartbeat; seizures; and unconsciousness. Death can occur if someone is not treated in time.
Public Health Minister Rajata Rajatanavin said other at-risk groups were people exercising outdoors for a long period; children aged under five; the elderly people in Thailand as their bodies did not release heat as well as the young; people with high blood pressure; and insomniacs.
