Heat wave: ‘Reduce alcohol, protein intake, monitor blood pressure’ – Abia Govt advises residents

The Abia State Government, through the Department of Climate Change of the Ministry of Environment and Urban Renewal, has expressed concern over the recent changes in the climate, resulting in heat waves during the day and at night.

The adverse effects of the current situation ranges from dehydration which can lead to fainting, outbreak of chicken pox, heat rashes and mental stress.

Also associated with heat-waves are skin cancer, meningitis and in the worst case scenario, death.

In a press statement signed by Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, Abia State Commissioner for Environment, the State Government recalled that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) had advised Nigerians on how to prepare for changes in climatic conditions

The statement therefore advised Abia indigenes and other residents to adhere to the recommendations by the experts in order to minimize the threats associated with the heat wave.

The recommendations, according to the commissioner, include drinking more water and staying hydrated, reducing consumption of alcoholic and caffeinated beverages and reducing intake of foods rich in proteins, which increase metabolic activities.

The commissioner advised that fresh foods and fruits are better alternatives.

The State Government added that the NIMET advisory recommended that the residents stay indoors between 12 noon and 4:30 pm, take cold bath before going to bed at night, and also monitor their blood pressure always.

The State Government’s advisory is in reaction to cases of chicken pox and heat rashes recorded by children and adults, which are associated with the current hot conditions.

Also, a consultant nephrologist in the state, Dr Chimezie Okwuonu, has said that pregnant women and old persons are most affected by the heat wave.

He added that the hot weather can also damage the quality of drugs in medicine stores.