Parents have been urged to pay close attention to the health and safety of children amid the prevailing hot weather and the ongoing school holiday period, according to Consultant Physician Dr. Deepal Perera.
Dr. Perera warned that children face an increased risk of dehydration due to the high temperatures experienced in recent days. He said prolonged outdoor activities and playing under direct sunlight could have serious effects on children’s health, potentially affecting the heart and brain and, in severe cases, causing convulsions.
He identified headache, vomiting, body aches, drowsiness, discomfort, loss of appetite and dark-coloured urine as some of the warning signs of dehydration.
Dr. Perera stressed the importance of ensuring that children who play outdoors receive adequate fluids. In addition to water, he recommended natural drinks and fluids such as king coconut water, Jeewani, lime and orange drinks, as well as fruits such as mangoes and pomegranates, porridge and soups.
He also advised children to wear light cotton clothing, use hats and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, particularly during the hottest hours of the day. Taking regular breaks in cool, shaded areas was also recommended.
Meanwhile, Dr. Perera urged parents to remain especially vigilant about children spending more time at home during the school holidays and to take necessary precautions to protect them from heat-related health risks.
