BAGUIO CITY (PIA) -- With the dry and hotter temperatures associated with this El Niño phenomenon, the Department of Health is advising the public to be wary of heat-related illnesses.

In a media forum on March 6, Dr. Jennifer Joyce Pira of the DOH in the Cordillera, reminded the public to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, be properly hydrated, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Pira advised the public, especially senior citizens, children, outdoor workers, and even athletes to be cautious of dehydration, exhaustion, and heat stroke, which are the common causes of hospitalization during the hot, dry season.

“Avoid staying outdoors for prolonged periods, drink eight to 10 or more glasses of water daily, wear loose fitting garments,” Pira said. If  you feel unwell, immediately go for a consultation at a primary care facility.

Pira also cautioned people against the other common illnesses during hot weather, such as food and water-borne disease, typhoid fever, cholera, influenza, leptospirosis, dengue, and chikungunya.

The hot temperature also triggers asthma. Those with a family history of skin cancer should protect themselves from the ultraviolet rays of the sun, as it may trigger such a disease, the doctor added.

She also encouraged the public to practice the seven healthy habits that the DOH is advocating, namely: move more, eat right; be clean and live sustainably; get vaccinated; don’t smoke, drink less alcohol, say no to drugs; care for yourself and for others; practice safe sex; and do no harm, put safety first. 

The highlands of the Cordillera, including Baguio City, are currently experiencing extreme temperatures that vary from cold in the morning and evening, to hot in the late morning up to the afternoon.

Based on the latest weather  and climate outlook of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration or PAGASA, the forecasted maximum temperature for this month of March in mountainous Luzon including Baguio City, Benguet, and other highland areas of the Cordillera, will be from 26.5 to 28.1 degrees Celsius. (JDP/CCD-PIA CAR)