7 die from heat-related illnesses as PH braces for extreme temperatures

At least seven people in the Philippines have died from heat-related illnesses between January 1 and April 29, according to the Department of Health (DoH).

Health Assistant Secretary Albert Francis E. Domingo reported that there have been 77 heat-related illness cases recorded so far, with 87% or 67 cases involving individuals aged 12 to 21 years old.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned that the heat index may reach dangerous levels in 30 areas across the country on Saturday, with some regions expecting temperatures up to 48°C.

Common symptoms of heat-related illnesses include loss of consciousness, confusion, heart attack for heat stroke, fatigue, muscle cramps, dizziness, vomiting, and headaches.

The government has provided P541 million worth of aid, including food packs, rice, fuel, roofing sheets, generators, and hygiene kits, to 10 regions affected by the El Niño weather event.