As the current temperature rise continues to bite across the country, Anambra governor’s wife, Mrs Nonye Soludo has asked nursing mothers living in the state to increase the breast milk intake of their babies to keep them steadily hydrated.

 

The governor’s wife, who stated this in Awka, also urged pregnant women to ensure that where they sleep or work is well ventilated, take regular water and baths to reduce intense heat reactions.

 

A few weeks ago, the country began to experience extreme high temperatures raising concerns about health and serious safety worries.

 

According to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), the temperature of the weather fluctuates between thirty-four degrees centigrade to thirty-nine degrees centigrade all over the nation with Anambra and the rest of the Southern-Eastern states topping the red zone.

 

The extreme weather , according to Mrs Soludo, should not be overlooked, given its serious impact on health including possibilities of extreme dehydration, heat stroke, measles, rashes, chicken pox, body weakness and respiratory problems.

 

She reiterated her advisory on regular water intake of up to five litres per day and explained that the current weather condition demands even higher water intake beyond the recommended unit.

 

The governor’s wife also suggested other alternatives such as adequate cool baths, sleeping outside the room but under insecticide treated nets, opening up all ventilation channels in the house, using hand fans, rechargeable fans or air-conditioning options, among others.

 

She also advised pregnant and breastfeeding moms to incorporate more fruits and vegetables in their diets and drink healthy fluids, especially juice or smoothies made from natural fruits.

 

The Anambra governor’s wife also advised against engaging in physical activities in the peak of the day, and to avoid direct sun heat during the peak of the day’s temperature, especially between twelve o’clock in the afternoon and four o’clock in the evening.

 

She also urged schools, markets, worship places, offices, and other public places to make drinking water available at strategic corners to help those in severe thirst and to reduce dehydration issues.

 

Mrs Soludo, while explaining that the current weather condition is temporary, highlighted the essence of tree planting and why the present administration in the state is pushing for the green economic revolution led by regenerative agriculture.