The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has predicted that many Nigerians would likely experience “above danger heat stress” this year due to the combination of heat and humidity.
NiMet, in its 2017 Seasonal Rainfall Prediction, said that heat for too long could cause heat stress which may, in turn, lead to several illnesses collectively called “hyperthermia”.
The agency warned that older people could have a tough time dealing with heat and humidity, as most people who dies from hyperthermia globally each year were over 50.
NiMet highlighted some of the heat related complications to include heat syncope, heat cramps, heat edema, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, adding that Nigerians were no exception.
According to the agency, heat syncope is a sudden dizziness that can happen when one is active outdoors in hot weather.
“Heat cramps are the painful tightening of muscles in your stomach, arms or legs which can result from hard work.
“Heat exhaustion is a warning that your body can no longer keep itself cool as people might feel thirsty, dizzy, weak, uncoordinated and nauseated accompanied by lots of sweating.
“Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke where people need to get medical help right away.
“Older people and people who become dehydrated or those with chronic diseases or alcoholism are at most risk,’’ NiMet warned.
On malaria, NiMet said it had continued to make the forecast to sensitise citizens, advising the health sector to be better prepared to deal with the deadly disease.
The report said that `plasmodium falciparum’, a protozoan parasite that causes malaria found in Nigeria was the most dangerous of the malaria parasites.
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