ILOILO – With the official onset of the dry season, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) has issued a public advisory urging Ilonggos, especially vulnerable sectors, to take extra precautions against heat-related illnesses.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) declared on Wednesday, March 26, the end of the northeast monsoon or amihan and the official start of the dry season.
“With PAGASA’s announcement, we now advise the public to protect themselves from extreme heat. The threat of heat-related illnesses is now upon us,” said Dr. Rodney Labis, head of IPHO’s Health Service Delivery Division.
Labis explained that heat-related illnesses occur when the body’s core temperature rises uncontrollably due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially when coupled with inadequate hydration.
He identified four common heat-related conditions:
* Heat cramps – painful muscle spasms in the legs, arms, or abdomen caused by loss of water and electrolytes through excessive sweating during physical activity in hot conditions;
* Heat syncope – dizziness or fainting caused by a drop in blood pressure due to blood vessel dilation from extreme heat;
* Heat exhaustion – symptoms include headache, extreme fatigue, nausea or vomiting, and general weakness;
* Heat stroke – the most severe and life-threatening form, requiring immediate medical attention. Symptoms include unconsciousness, convulsions, rapid breathing, slurred speech, hot dry skin, and lack of sweating.
“While the body has natural defenses like sweating to cool down, these become insufficient during extremely hot weather—especially when hydration is lacking and the heat index exceeds 33°C, particularly between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.,” Labis warned.
The elderly, children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, asthma, kidney disease, mental health issues, and dementia are most at risk, he added.
To avoid heat-related illnesses, Labis advised the public to take the following precautions:
* Monitor daily weather forecasts and heat index advisories;
* Avoid outdoor activities and limit strenuous work during peak heat hours;
* Schedule essential outdoor tasks during cooler parts of the day; wear light clothing, hats, or use umbrellas and sunscreen to prevent sunburn;
* For outdoor workers such as farmers, construction workers, traffic enforcers, and delivery riders, take regular breaks in shaded areas and stay well hydrated with water or oral rehydration solution (oresol).
Labis also shared first-aid tips for suspected heat stroke cases. He urged bystanders to call the nearest emergency hotline and bring the patient to a cool area. Remove excess clothing, use fans or ice packs to lower body temperature, and, if the patient is conscious, offer water or oresol while awaiting medical assistance.
According to PAGASA’s advisory, the following heat index categories and corresponding recommendations are in place:
* Extreme Danger (≥52°C) – cancel outdoor and high-intensity activities such as field trips or sports events;
* Danger (42–51°C) – restrict activities for those unaccustomed to heat and vulnerable individuals; reschedule to cooler hours;
* Extreme Caution (33–41°C) – increase rest periods and hydration breaks; limit exposure during practices and competitions;
* Caution (27–32°C) – normal activities may continue, but participants should be monitored for early signs of heat illness.
The IPHO emphasized that with proper preparation and timely response, heat-related illnesses are preventable./PN
