BANGUED, Abra (PIA) -- The province of Abra is among the hottest provinces during summer. With the province’s heat index reaching as high as 37 °C, the Provincial Department of Health Office (PDOHO)-Abra reiterates its reminder on how to prevent heat stroke.

PDOHO head Dr. Lilibeth Martin stressed in an interview the importance of staying hydrated, staying indoors especially at noon when the temperature is at its peak, and practicing personal hygiene.

“As much as possible, agtalinaed tayo ti uneg ti babbalayen nu kapudot na iti aldaw, ag-hydrate, uminom ti adu a danum, ken saantayo liplipatan ti personal hygiene kas ti panagdigus ken panagdaldalus ti bagi,” she said.

 [As much as possible, stay indoors during the peak of temperature at noon time, hydrate, drink plenty of water, and do not neglect personal hygiene practices such as bathing, and keeping your body clean.]

While there are no reported incidents of heat stroke yet in the province, the rural health units are prepared, and are closely monitoring their areas.

 “So far, kadagitay RHUs, awan pay ngem ditay ammo ta mangrugrugi palang ti kabara na ngem they are ready in times of emergencies ken dagiti hospitals tayo,” she assured.

Aside from heat stroke attacks, Martin also cautioned the public about other extreme heat-related diseases that may arise.

“Gapu iti kabarana, toy kudil tayo ma expose ti init, nu dadduma haan makadigos ti malem, maka-accumulate microorganism ken rugit, isu nga adda fungal infection, kamanaw, gudgod, kaddil,” Martin explained.

[Because of the extreme heat, our skin is exposed to the sun. Sometimes we do not take a bath in the afternoon, and micro-organisms and dirt accumulate so there is fungal infection, tinea versicolor, scabies, skin sores].

PAGASA is encouraging the public to daily monitor temperature reports to prepare precautionary actions against heat-related health problems.

Meanwhile, Gov. Dominic Valera suspended face-to-face classes in all private and public schools in the province of Abra on April 8, 11, 12, and 13 due to extreme heat. Schools are also encouraged to implement alternative modes of learning to ensure that the education of learners continues. (CAGT-PIA Abra)