Public urged to take precautions amid rising temperatures

• Medical experts warn of imminent rise in skin diseases  
• Stay hydrated

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

Heat felt on the human body is expected to increase up to ‘Caution Level’ today (19) in the Northern, North-Central, North-Western, Western, and Southern Provinces and in Moneragala and Ratnapura districts, the Meteorology Department said. 

In light of the situation, health experts advice people to avoid unnecessary exposure to sunlight and to drink plenty of fluids frequently.   
“Overexposure to the sun may lead to complexities on certain people and thus it is better for everyone to stay away from the sun,” an expert said.   
Further, health experts indicate that skin problems are becoming more common among children due to rising temperatures across the country.   
“Higher temperatures can make skin conditions worse and increase the risk of dehydration, especially in young children, the expert added.   
Accordingly, the people in the concerned areas have been informed to drink enough water and rest as much as possible in shaded areas.   
It has also been further informed to take care of the elderly, sick people as well as small children, to limit strenuous activities and to wear white or light coloured clothes as much as possible.