The scorching heat in HCM City over the recent days has sickened many local people, particularly children and elderly people.

More children in hospitalised in HCM City amid the hot weather

Pham Van Hoang, head of Medical Examination Ward of the Children’s Hospital 1, said that the hospital has seen a surge in patient number despite not being the peak season for hot weather. Around 5,500 children are being hospitalised daily, mostly with digestive and respiratory problems.

Dr. Le Cong Thien from Children’s Hospital 2, said that the hospital was coping with roughly 5,000 outpatients daily.  

The high temperature has affected children’s immune system, increasing risks for viral attacks. Inappropriate temperatures for air conditioners were surprisingly blamed among the reasons for respiratory diseases among children.

The number of elderly people in HCM City hospitalised has also increased.

According to Dr. Vu Thi Minh Phuong, Thong Nhat Hospital’s Emergency Ward, most elderly patients seen over recent days had suffered from high blood pressure, heart and respiratory problems and arthritis.

Dr. Nguyen Khac Vui, deputy director of Saigon General Hospital, said that the hospital has recorded a rise of 5-10% in patients suffering from strokes, pancreatitis and pneumonia.

Vui advised people, especially children and the elderly not to go out from 10 am to 3 pm to avoid being hit by the heat. Children should avoid sudden changes in temperature.

Nguoi Lao Dong/Dtinews