By Suzanne Potter Reporter/Producer, California News Service, a bureau of Public News Service.
This year, the 4th of July weekend arrives with an extreme heat advisory in California, with triple-digit temperatures in many inland areas well into next week. So, public health experts are asking people to take extra precautions to stay safe. Anyone is susceptible to heat-related illness, especially if they haven’t gotten acclimated.
Dr. Rita Nguyen, assistant health officer with the California Department of Public Health, said many groups are vulnerable to heat stroke.
“Those who are unhoused, those working outdoors, older adults, pregnant people, infants and children, people with a disability, those with chronic health conditions, and lower-income populations,” she said.
Heat stroke can impair a person’s judgment, so they may not realize that it’s time to come inside. That’s why experts urge everyone to keep an eye on colleagues, friends and loved ones for signs of illness, which may include heavy sweating, cramps, tiredness, irritability, confusion or nausea.
Dr. Donna O’Shea, chief medical officer in population health and value-based care with UnitedHealthcare, said people should stay away from sports drinks and caffeinated sugary drinks – and go for cold water instead.
“For every 15 minutes of outdoor activity, you should drink about four ounces of water, which is like four big gulps. Or drink 16 ounces of water an hour, depending on your activity level,” she said.
O’Shea also advised people to make use of virtual care programs that connect you with a healthcare provider 24/7 from home. She noted that some insurance plans, including those offered by UnitedHealthcare, offer this type of urgent care at no additional cost.
