Zimbabwe is experiencing unusually hot weather conditions, which environmental experts are attributing to Climate Change. While the national Meteorological Services Department routinely warns people about the dangers of extreme heat on health — especially when temperatures rise above the mid-30-degree Celsius range — there are no readily available statistics on its impact.
But health authorities say there are cases of heat-induced fever in areas that suffer heatwaves in Zimbabwe amid rising temperatures being recorded globally as a result of Climate Change.
What is a heatwave?
A heatwave is an extended period of excessively hot weather, it is usually defined locally in relation to local normal weather, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Heatwaves, or heat and hot weather, which lasts for several days, can have a significant impact on communities, including a rise in heat-related deaths.
The WHO includes heatwaves among the world’s most dangerous natural hazards, but notes that it gets little media attention because deaths and destruction from its impact are not always immediately obvious. From 1998-2017, it says over 166,000 people are recorded to have died globally due to heatwaves .
The body and heat
The body maintains an ideal core temperature of 37oC, eliminating sweat through evaporation of sweat and increasing blood flow to the skin.
Measures to take during a heat wave or extremely hot weather conditions
Stay in shaded areas or indoors to limit direct exposure to the sun.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water regardless of your activity level, without waiting to feel thirsty. Do not drink alcohol, liquids with alcohol or large amounts of sugar as these lead to loss of more body fluid.
What about ice cold drinks?
Avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps, it is advised to consume drinks that are just above room temperature.
Cool yourself down
If you can eat cold foods, and fruits with a high water content; bath with cold water and sprinkle water over skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck.
Keep your environment cool
Keeping your living area cool is especially important for infants, the elderly or those with chronic health conditions or who can’t look after themselves.
Keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day and open at night when the temperature has dropped. Close curtains that receive morning or afternoon sun.
Stay away from direct sunlight and heat
Everyone is advised to consider ways to protect themselves from direct sunlight for example by staying in the shade, wearing shades, wearing a sunhat, and applying sunscreen when working or playing outdoors.
Avoid vigorous physical activity
Try not to engage in intense physical activity, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Reschedule sporting and physical play to alternative times.
What happens when one fails to regulate the temperature of the body?
- Heat rush – Small, itchy blisters appear on the face, neck, upper chest, under breast, groin, and scrotum areas. This can affect any age but is prevalent in young children
- Heat Cramps – Painful muscular spasms occur, most often in the legs, arms or abdomen, usually at the end of sustained physical activity. This can be attributed to dehydration, loss of electrolytes through heavy sweating and muscle fatigue.
- Heat exhaustion – Symptoms include intense thirst, weakness, discomfort, anxiety, dizziness, fainting, and headache.
- Heat stroke – Body temperature rapidly increases to greater than 40°C and is associated with central nervous system abnormalities, such as stupor, confusion or coma. Hot, dry skin, nausea, hypotension (low blood pressure), fast heart rate, and rapid breathing.
- Heat syncope – This involves brief loss of consciousness or dizziness. It is common in patients with cardiovascular diseases (heart and blood disorders).
What groups are most vulnerable to extremely hot weather conditions?
Children
As dependents, children rely on others to keep them safe, and some may not have the resources or knowledge to protect themselves from extreme heat. Children spend a good portion of their time in schools or day care settings, some of which may lack air conditioning.
- As much as you can, keep children out of direct sun.
- Move outdoor activities to the morning and evening rather than middle of the day.
- Stay hydrated, and practice sun safety
Older people
For older adults, health complications such as heart conditions can exacerbate the effects of extreme heat. Some older adults may also be using prescription drugs that affect their capability to regulate heat. Older adults are also more likely to be socially isolated than some groups, as they are less likely to have occupations and may lack other community involvement.
- Do not stay home alone during extreme heat events.
- Drink fluids regularly to avoid getting dehydrated and overheated.
- Be careful with the amount of time you spend outdoors. Take frequent breaks to come back inside, cool off, and drink fluids that don’t have caffeine.
People with Disabilities
Many people with disabilities are at a higher risk of heat-related illness during periods of high daytime and night-time temperatures. During heat events, people with physical, sensory, mental, or cognitive disabilities are disproportionately affected.
- Ensure people living with albinism stay away from direct sunlight and have adequate supply of sunscreen.
- Provide assistance to people with physical disability that affects their mobility
- Where people have problems with mobility ensure there is someone to assist
- Ensure living spaces are well aerated and have an adequate supply of water
Sources
https://www.heat.gov/pages/who-is-at-risk-to-extreme-heat
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