Health ministry warns of heat stroke

BANGKOK, April 6 (TNA) - With the weather temperature continues rising in Thailand, the Public Health Ministry has issued a warning to people of the danger of heat stroke that has killed nearly 200 people between 2003 – 2013. By Monday, the weather department said weather in Bangkok and outlying provinces stood at the minimum of 28 degrees Celsius and at the maximum of 38 degrees Celsius. But in some northern and northeastern provinces such as Mae Hon Son, Loei and Khonkaen, the maximum temperature could soar to about 40 degrees Celsius in the afternoon. Public Health Minister Dr. Rajata Rajatanavin said people may easily fall sick due to the heat, especially of heat stroke and if the body could not emit the rising temperature. Common symptoms are headache, nausea and dehydration. But in severe cases, it can cause delirium and even deaths. Dr. Sopon Mekthon, director-general of the Ministry’s Disease Control Department, said first aid for a heat stroke victim is to help the patient lie down and raise both legs in order to improve blood flow to the brain. And then use a small piece of towel soaked with cool water or ice in wiping the patient’s neck, forehead and body in order to lower the body temperature before sending him to a hospital. According to statistics released by the Ministry’s Bureau of Epidemiology, a total of 196 persons died of heat stroke in Thailand between 2003 – 2013. Most of the victims were elderly people. (TNA)