THE pandemic could compound health risks during summer, warned experts, as humidity is forecast to be at a maximum of 90 per cent today and tomorrow.
There have also been reports of soaring summer temperatures leading to false alarms of coronavirus infection with medics urging people to “cool off” after being exposed to heat.
The temperature in Bahrain hit a maximum of 47C yesterday with humidity at 85pc, according to the government’s met office.
In its weekly forecast, it showed the mercury remaining between 44C and 45C until the weekend with humidity between 85pc to 90pc.
High humidity can have an adverse effect on the human body.
Because the air feels warmer than the official, recorded temperature, it can contribute to feelings of low energy and lethargy.
In addition, hyperthermia, or over-heating as a result of your body’s inability to effectively let out heat, can negatively impact your health in conditions of high humidity.
Some health risks which result from overexposure to humidity (hyperthermia) include dehydration, fatigue, muscle cramps, heat exhaustion, fainting and heat stroke.
Salmaniya Medical Complex Accident and Emergency Department chief resident Dr P V Cheriyan said the “absolute” temperature could go up to 53C or 55C, with an increase in humidity, even when the temperatures averaged between 44C and 45C.
“This is very high for the human body and it is mandatory to take necessary precautions, mainly keeping self hydrated,” he told the GDN.
“Extra precautions must be taken amidst Covid-19 in terms of personal hygiene, for lack of cleanliness could lead to infection.
“A balanced diet must be followed, mainly with vitamins C and D, which are the main necessities for Covid-19 – this is in a normal meal if taken at proper times.
“Otherwise, supplements must be taken.
“Summer heat of this kind can be dangerous amidst the pandemic and it is the responsibility of an individual to follow public health guidelines.”
Dr Cheriyan urged parents to ensure vaccinations for children, while cautioning them to avoid exposing infants and toddlers as they are immune risk.
“Work ban is a boon for workers on-site, while even others should make sure they wear light clothes during this season,” he said, referring to the outdoor work ban enforced in the country between midday and 4pm during July and August, to protect the labour force.
“Low fat meals and preferably meals with lots of leafy vegetables and fruits are ideal at this time.
“Chronic patients must take their medicines on time and a good lifestyle must be maintained.
“Those allergic to dust must also be cautious.
“No symptoms must be ignored as the season comes compounded with virus risk.”
American Mission Hospital general practitioner Dr Babu Ramachandran said the soaring temperatures called for extra precautions.
“Since we had fewer vehicles plying I expected the heat to reduce this year, but unfortunately, it has not been so,” he told the GDN.
“The temperatures are soaring and a common scenario is that body temperature reflects high as we enter from outside into offices of grocery shops, which gives a false alarm as a Covid-19 symptom.
Wait
“The advice is to wait for the body to cool off before you record the temperature.
“One important thing to keep in mind is it is not Covid-19 – this is an unnecessary panic – but we need to be extra careful this season which comes amidst this virus.
“Keep yourself well hydrated and drink warm fluids.
“It is a myth that Covid-19 will die in the summer heat, so please don’t ignore precautions under this false hope.”
World Health Organisation also, in its advice for the public, dismissed the belief that the virus will die in a hot climate.
“The Covid-19 virus can spread in hot and humid climates,” it said.
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