The Alachua County Health Department is alerting citizens to monitor their health and limit direct sun exposure as temperatures rise.
"The high temperature and humidity that we are experiencing make heat-related illness more likely," stated Jean Munden, Administrator of the Alachua County Health Department. "Citizens should monitor their health and contact their medical provider if they start to feel ill due to the heat."
Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are the primary heat-related illnesses people suffer when the body's temperature increases.Citizens are urged to stay inside air-conditioned rooms or out of the sun when possible and drink plenty of light-colored fluids. Additionally, citizens should never leave children or pets in vehicles, as the temperature inside a vehicle can reach deadly levels.
Warning signs of heat stroke vary but may include the following:
- An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F),
- Red, hot and dry skin along with a rapid, strong pulse
- Throbbing headache, dizziness, nauseas, confusion or unconsciousness
Warning signs of heat exhaustion include the following:
- Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps
- Dizziness, tiredness, weakness
- Headache, nausea, vomiting, or fainting
Citizens should limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours, wear light clothing, and if exercising or working outdoors, rest often in shady areas. Alachua County is expected to have temperatures in the 90's with sporadic rain throughout the week.
Click here for the Alachua County Health Department webpage.
