HEALTH OFFICE ISSUES CAUTION: 3 Die of Heat Stroke in Iloilo City

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Iloilo City Health Office (CHO) has warned the public about the dangers of extreme heat following the deaths of three individuals due to heat-related complications.

From April 16 to 21, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) responded to eight heat stroke cases, six of which required hospitalization.

The CDRRMO’s Emergency Medical Services unit confirmed that three patients died from heat-related complications.

“We are recording alarmingly high heat indices,” said Darianne Joy Papa, Health Emergency Management Coordinator at the CHO.

“The weather has become dangerously hot—not only in Iloilo but in other areas as well,” she added.

The city recorded its highest heat index this year at 47°C on April 16, the same day four heat stroke cases were reported.

Additional cases were logged on April 19 (two cases, 44°C), April 20 (one case, 40°C), and April 21 (one case, 39°C).

According to the CHO, heat-related illness victims included a 10-year-old child, young adults aged 18 to 28, and individuals aged 29 and above.

A heat index between 33°C and 41°C is categorized as “extreme caution,” where heat cramps and exhaustion are likely, and heat stroke is possible with prolonged activity.

Earlier this month, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas issued an executive order suspending face-to-face classes from preschool to senior high school when the heat index reaches 41°C or higher.

The order also encouraged flexible class schedules and alternative learning methods once the index hits 40°C to protect students and staff.

Health Officials Urge Vigilance as Temperatures Rise

Mayor Jerry Treñas, along with city health and emergency officials, is urging Ilonggos to take precautions against extreme heat.

Papa, who also serves as Nurse II at the CHO, emphasized the life-threatening risks of heat stroke and advised immediate emergency response for suspected cases.

Symptoms of heat stroke include high body temperature, confusion, nausea, headache, flushed skin, rapid breathing, and a racing heartbeat.

In emergencies, individuals should move the affected person to a shaded area, loosen clothing, and apply cool water while awaiting medical help.

To avoid heat-related illnesses, CHO advises limiting outdoor activity, staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and choosing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

The public is also encouraged to schedule strenuous activities during cooler times of the day—early morning or late afternoon.