The Department of Health, Isle of Man Government is advising everyone; but especially the elderly and vulnerable (the very young, people with long term medical problems) to take special care in the hot weather.
There have been several admissions to Noble’s Hospital of patients who had pre-existing medical problems and who were on multiple medications who deteriorated due to dehydration resulting from hot weather. Some of these patients showed evidence of kidney damage.
In England, the number of deaths resulting from the hot weather has been estimated to be over 700.
Advice to the elderly and those with long term medical conditions:
- Please take special care in the hot weather.
- Make sure you stay cool – avoid direct exposure to the sun between 11 am and 3 pm, wear light, loose clothes. Drink plenty of fluids such as water, fruit juices. Try and limit alcoholic drinks, tea and coffee as they worsen the dehydration.
- Please do not stop any medication. You may notice that your symptoms slightly worsen, if you are concerned, please seek medical advice. Make sure you do not run out of medication.
- If you are going on holiday, check the weather forecasts for the holiday area you are going to and follow the advice regarding the weather. Some parts of the UK (SE England, London, SW England, Midlands are on “Level Three” alert).
Advice to the general population:
- Please follow the advice regarding fluid intake and keeping cool.
- If you have elderly, vulnerable neighbours or friends, please check on them to make sure they are alright.
For further advice and information on sun safety and hot weather advice, please visit: www.gov.im/publichealth.
