Factsheet: Facts on managing heat waves  - ZimFact
Ngoni Mhuruyengwe
October 28, 2023
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.
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 maintains an ideal core temperature of 37C, eliminating sweat through evaporation of sweat and increasing blood flow to the skin.
Stay in shaded areas or indoors to limit direct exposure to the sun.
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.
Avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps, it is advised to consume drinks that are just above room temperature.
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.
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.
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.
Try not to engage in intense physical activity, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Reschedule sporting and physical play to alternative times.
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.
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.
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.
Sources
World Health Organisation
https://www.heat.gov/pages/who-is-at-risk-to-extreme-heat
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