KUWAIT: The Ministry of Health warned the public against direct exposure to sunlight for long or frequent periods, specifically during peak periods (from 10 am until 4 pm). The official spokesman of the ministry, Dr Abdullah Al-Sanad, said in a message broadcast on social networking sites that direct exposure to sunlight during peak periods may pose a risk to health and may cause sunburn, heat stress, heat stroke, and even muscle laceration.

Therefore, Al-Sanad advised everyone to avoid going out during that peak period, unless necessary, so as to avoid direct exposure to sunlight while taking preventive measures. He explained that with the high temperatures these days, there has been a record number of cases associated with direct exposure to sunlight or high heat-related cases, and hospitals have dealt with about 33 cases of different age groups in the six governorates during the first ten days of July.

Al-Sanad urged children, beachgoers, and water sports enthusiasts to avoid spending long hours outdoors during the peak hours. He also advised workers and employers who work in open spaces to use shade and air conditioning so as to avoid heat exhaustion, pointing out that these groups may be more vulnerable to heat stress and sunburn.

He added that the elderly people are among the most vulnerable groups, so their families and health care providers should ensure that they drink enough water and stay in shaded and air-conditioned environments. Al-Sanad stressed the need to monitor the symptoms. He stressed the importance of being aware of the symptoms of heat stress and heat stroke, such as dizziness, headache, nausea, heavy sweating, and general weakness. He pointed out that when symptoms persist or worsen, medical help should be sought immediately.—KUNA