Dangers of heat-related illnesses highlighted

SHARJAH // Health authorities in Sharjah are spreading the word on the dangers of heat-related illnesses as summer approaches.

The annual three-day campaign, which features exhibitions and seminars, was launched at Sharjah Mega Mall by the emirate's medical zone.

At the heart of this year's programme was advice on dealing with food poisoning, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration and diarrhoea.

Dr Amina Hashim, the director of health education at the Sharjah Medical Zone, said the continuing awareness campaign was being sent to workplaces and homes. "Health officials will have a number of meetings with employees in large factories, companies and institutions to discuss ways of summer disease prevention," Dr Hashim said.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the undersecretary at the Ministry of Health and director general of the Sharjah Medical Zone, urged residents to stay healthy and not retreat indoors when the weather heats up. "Exercising in the hot weather is as important as it is in cooler weather, but people have to avoid overexposure to the heat," Sheikh Mohammed said.

He urged parents to restrict their children's outside playtime and stressed that workers outdoors should drink a lot of water and make the most of the midday break when it comes into effect.

"One should drink before you get thirsty because once you are thirsty, your body is already dehydrated," Sheikh Mohammed said.

Authorities from the Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority advised residents to ration use of resources in summer to prevent the annual problems with supply.