Dr Mujahid Faruk, a dietician at Lucass Hospital in Abuja, has urged Nigerians to take precautions against rising temperatures as the country moves from the rainy season to hotter, drier months.
Faruk gave the advice in an interview with reporters in Abuja on Monday.
He urged Nigerians to take precautions during heatwaves to prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
He advised people to drink water regularly, even when they are not thirsty, and eat water-rich fruits such as watermelon, oranges and cucumber to stay hydrated.
Faruk said prolonged exposure to excessive heat could increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, particularly among children, older people, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions.
He also advised people to avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day, and to schedule outdoor activities for early morning or evening.
The expert recommended wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, using umbrellas and seeking shade to reduce exposure to excessive heat.
Faruk encouraged the public to improve ventilation, use curtains to block direct sunlight and move to cooler places when indoor temperatures become excessive.
He urged Nigerians to pay special attention to vulnerable groups, including children, older people, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions.
“Watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, headaches, excessive sweating, weakness and nausea. Move anyone affected to a cooler place and begin cooling them immediately.
“Confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness during extreme heat could indicate heatstroke, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.”
Nigerians should also monitor weather forecasts and follow safety guidelines issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and relevant health authorities.
