Dr Richard Nnabu, Medical Director, Ebonyi State Government House Clinic, on Thursday advised residents to drink a lot of water to stay hydrated during the current heat wave.
Nnabu, a Public Health Physician told our correspondent on Thursday in Abakaliki that it was advisable to drink at least three litres of water per day.
According to him, heat wave is a period when the weather is abnormally hot as is currently being experienced in Ebonyi and across the country.
“Climate change is a public health risk. Yes, it is usually hot particularly in this period of the year, especially in the Sahara African sub-region.
“My advice is once you feel any discomfort from the heat, take frequent showers and wear light clothes,” said Nnabu.
He added that residents should try to keep water filler/bottle close to them at all times, especially when going out, so as to remain hydrated.
“Stay in a well-ventilated or air-conditioned space. Don’t lock yourself up in a room that is hot. When you are indoor, leave your windows open.
“Too much heat can cause meningitis. This disease is an inflammation of the meninges. The meninges are the three membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord,” the medical expert explained.
According to him, Meningitis can occur when fluid surrounding the meninges becomes infected.
“The heat is quite unbearable, especially over the night. Apart from meningitis, there are other viral diseases associated with the period, including lasser fever, cough among others,” the director said.
Our corrrespondent reports that Ebonyi and other parts of the country are experiencing intense heatwave.
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