Nigerians At Risk Of Chicken Pox, Measles, Fainting, Other Chronic Conditions Over High Temperature

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has said that the current high temperature Nigerians are experiencing could cause dehydration that can lead to fainting, respiratory issues, chicken pox disease, increased vulnerability to chronic conditions, amongst other heat-related illnesses.

The NiMet, which raised the alarm in an advisory issued on Tuesday night on its X (formerly Twitter) handle, said that the current air temperatures in the Northern part of Nigeria is at 41°C and 39°C in the Southern part of the country.

According to NiMet, model projections of the air temperatures indicated that temperatures would remain at such high degree celsius in the coming days.

The agency advised Nigerians to observe adequate fluid intake, seek shade, use fans, and wear light, breathable clothing to reduce exposure to high temperatures.

The agency further advised Nigerians to avoid strenuous physical activity during peak heat hours, stay indoors as much as possible between 12:00 noon and 4:00 pm evening time.

The agency said, “Air Temperatures hit 41°C over the North and 39°C over the South with model Projections indicating temperatures to remain high in the coming days.

“Implications: Dehydration: this could also cause fainting; chicken Pox disease, Measles, Heat Rash, weakness of the body, slight fever, and dry lips; Heat-Related Illnesses; Respiratory Issues; and Increased Vulnerability to chronic conditions.

“Advisories: Adequate fluid intake. Seek shade, use fans, and wear light, breathable clothing to reduce exposure to high temperatures. Avoid strenuous physical activity during peak heat hours (Stay indoors as much as possible between 12:00 noon and 4:00 pm evening time).”

This is however coming at the time when Nigerians across the country are thrown into blackout by the power generating and distribution companies following the collapse of the national power grid.

This has also been compounded by the high cost premium motor spirit, popularly known as fuel, which cost as high N500 and above per liter in the country.