Metro Cebu’s water supply is reaching critical level, no thanks to the blistering summer heat.
CDN File Photos
As weather forecasters warned of a blisteringly hot summer ahead, local health officials advised the public to drink more water to keep themselves hydrated and avoid heatstroke.
Dr. Rene Catan of the Provincial Health Office said Cebu residents should stay in cool and shaded areas and drink at least eight glasses of water every day to help them beat the heat.
Catan said one should avail of medical attention immediately after feeling dizzy for long periods outside since this could be a sign of heat stroke.
Both children and elderly people are vulnerable to heat stroke, he said.
“Always have a bottle of water by your side to drink to cool yourselves. Lie down and apply cold compress to bring the body temperature down,” Catan said.
Catan also advised the public to make sure that their water is safe for consumption since contaminated water can cause gastroenteritis or stomach flu and also leads to dehydration.
“We’re still monitoring some of the diseases that are common during the summer but dengue is not one of them. We can expect dengue cases to rise in mid-June to August,” he said.
In its website, the Department of Health (DOH) said the months of March to May are usually marked by cases of food poisoning, diarrhea, heat ailments and recreation-associated injuries since it is vacation time for students.