Health Minister urges Dominicans to take precautions amid high temperatures

Santo Domingo.- Health Minister Víctor Atallah urged the Dominican population to strengthen preventive measures amid the high temperatures affecting the country, warning of the risks of dehydration, heat exhaustion and other heat-related complications.

Atallah, a cardiologist, recommended drinking water regularly throughout the day without waiting to feel thirsty, particularly for people who work, exercise or spend long periods outdoors.

He advised avoiding direct sun exposure during the hottest hours and limiting strenuous outdoor activities. People who work in the sun should take frequent breaks in shaded areas and stay hydrated.

The minister also recommended wearing light, loose-fitting clothing, keeping homes and workplaces well ventilated, and using cool showers or damp cloths to help regulate body temperature.

Special care for vulnerable groups

Atallah urged people to pay particular attention to children, babies, older adults and those with chronic conditions, including cardiovascular, respiratory and kidney diseases and diabetes.

He also warned against leaving children, vulnerable adults or pets inside parked vehicles, even briefly, because temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.

Warning signs of heat-related illness

Symptoms such as dizziness, headache, weakness, nausea, muscle cramps, intense thirst and exhaustion may indicate that the body is being affected by excessive heat. Those experiencing these symptoms should stop their activity, move to a cool place and drink water.

The minister stressed that confusion, disorientation, loss of consciousness or an extremely high body temperature require immediate medical attention, as they may indicate heat stroke.

Atallah called on the public not to underestimate the effects of high temperatures and to follow official recommendations, emphasizing that everyday preventive measures can help protect health during periods of extreme heat.