The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Afam Obidike, has urged Nigerians to increase their water intake and take precautionary measures to stay safe amid the current extreme heat being experienced across the country.
Speaking in an interview recently in Awka, Obidike warned that rising temperatures could trigger serious heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke if residents fail to take preventive action.
He advised citizens to stay informed about weather forecasts and heat advisories and to recognise early symptoms of heat stress, including heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, confusion and difficulty walking or speaking.
According to him, such symptoms require immediate medical attention as heat-related illnesses can worsen rapidly and become life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Obidike urged Nigerians to adopt simple but effective measures to reduce the health risks associated with extreme heat. These include drinking adequate water throughout the day, even when not feeling thirsty.
He recommended a daily intake of between 2.5 and 3.5 litres of water to help maintain proper hydration levels during the hot weather conditions.
The commissioner also cautioned against the consumption of beverages containing caffeine, high sugar levels or alcohol, noting that such drinks could worsen dehydration.
He further advised residents to take practical steps to keep body temperatures down, including the use of fans and air conditioners where available, and taking cool baths regularly.
Obidike encouraged households to improve indoor ventilation by opening windows to allow cross airflow and suggested the use of rechargeable fans, particularly in view of persistent electricity shortages in the country.
In addition, he recommended wearing lightweight clothing that reflects sunlight and allows the body to cool efficiently.
The health commissioner also advised Nigerians to limit outdoor activities during peak sunshine hours, typically between noon and 4 p.m., when temperatures are at their highest.
He emphasised the need for communities to pay special attention to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, who are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Obidike urged residents to check regularly on neighbours and family members within these groups and encourage them to avoid prolonged exposure to heat.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, in a recent nationwide advisory shared on its X platform, warned that heat stress occurs when the human body is unable to cool itself effectively under high temperature conditions.
The agency advised Nigerians to take precautionary measures as the country continues to experience unusually high temperatures.
