Sad Note: Heat Waves Continues To Claim Lives In Botswana

At least 3 people people out of the seven people that were admitted at the Bamalete Lutheran Hospital (BLH) showing symptoms of a heat wave have died. The three fatalities include a 90-year-old woman and two men aged 54 and 56. They all died in a hospital after showing heat wave symptoms, including breathing difficulties, high body temperatures and lack of consciousness.

In the week that three heat wave related deaths were recorded, an 11-year old boy from Mopipi also added to the statistics after he collapsed and died under the searing heat on Thursday.

The Ministry of Health has issued a press statement urging members of the public to take preventative measures to prevent heat related illnesses by observing the following health tips;
• Hydrate; drink lots of water and avoid alcohol.
• Wear loose fitting, light weight and light coloured clothing; avoid dark colours.
• Apply sunscreen lotions, wear sunglasses and hats before going out.
• Do not leave children and elderly people in parked cars.
• Limit outside activities to early morning or evening.
• Rest in shady areas.