Faced with the heat wave in Mexico Citythe Ministry of Health (SEDESA) has issued a series of recommendations for the care of children under five years of age, who are one of the main vulnerable groups against high temperatures.
SEDESA highlights the importance of these measures to avoid serious health problems such as dehydration and heat stroke.
SEDESA’s recommendations include avoid sun exposure and try not to take children to the park or do physical activities between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.when the sun is most intense.
Head protection with a cap or hat is essential, especially during recess and when picking them up from school. Furthermore, SEDESA emphasizes the need to maintain adequate hydrationadvising to drink water constantly even if you are not thirsty.
Regarding food, the SEDESA recommends the consumption of fresh foods, such as fruits and vegetables, and avoid eating food on the street. Frequent handwashing is also crucial to preventing illness.
Appropriate clothing is another important point; It is suggested to wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to better reflect sunlight and reduce body heat. The use of sunscreen to protect children’s skin is also highlighted.
SEDESA warns that common symptoms of dehydration in children can include dry mouth, irritability, crying without tears, sunken eyes and sunken fontanelle, known as the mollera.
To reduce the risk of dehydration, It is recommended to implement a preventive hydration plan at home, ensuring frequent consumption of water and electrolytes. SEDESA advises against excessive consumption of energy drinks and serums with sweeteners, as they can have the opposite effect on hydration and contain excess sugar.
Warning signs
If warning signs occur, SEDESA urges people to go to the nearest Health Center, where children will receive free care. The locations of these health units can be found on the official website of the Mexico City Health Secretariat.
The Rehydration Modules in Health Centers will provide Life Oral Serum to reverse fluid loss. It is crucial to follow the instructions of health personnel regarding the preparation and administration of Vida Oral Serum to ensure its effectiveness.
In severe cases of dehydration, children will be referred to public pediatric hospitals in the network to receive free emergency care.
Finally, SEDESA calls for reinforcing precautionary measures in the consumption of food, since with heat they tend to decompose more easily and can cause gastrointestinal diseases.
These SEDESA recommendations are essential to protect the health of children during the heat wave in Mexico City and ensure that they can enjoy the summer safely.
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