Facing Extreme Hot Weather In Indonesia, The Ministry Of Health Asks The Public To Do This!

Extreme heat illustration (Photo: Doc. Unsplash)

JAKARTA - The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) recently indicated unusual hot weather in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia.

Therefore, the Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) asked the public to be vigilant when outdoors by keeping the body healthy.

"Indeed, the weather has been hot for a few days and in the future it is not unusual. For that, let's follow tips to avoid the impact of hot weather when you are or are often outdoors," said Ministry of Health spokesman Mohammad Syahril in a press statement, Tuesday, April 25.

The following are a number of appeals to deal with extreme heat in Indonesia:

1. Prevent dehydration by drinking lots of water. Don't wait for thirst.

2. Avoid caffeinated drinks, energy drinks, alcohol, and sweet drinks.

3. Avoid contact with the sun directly, use a hat or umbrella.

4. Wear clothes that are light and loose.

5. Use a dark shirt so as not to absorb heat.

6. As much as possible take shelter between 11.00 and 15.00 WIB.

7. Do not leave anyone in the vehicle in a parking condition with an open or closed window.

8. Use a sunscreen of at least 30 SPFs on the skin that are not covered by clothes before leaving the house.

9. Provide a cold water spray bottle in the vehicle.

The Ministry of Health also urges the public to remain vigilant when symptoms appear, such as excessive sweat, the skin feels hot and dry, the feeling of palpitations or heart feels beating faster, the skin looks pale, cramps in the legs or abdoment, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and a little urine and thick yellow color.

"If these symptoms appear, cool the body with a wet cloth or wet sponge on the wrist, neck, and other body folds, and drink lots of water. If you are still symptomatic, immediately visit the nearest health facility for treatment," concluded Syahril.