How to stay healthy during sudden weather changes in Ho Chi Minh City

According to the Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control, prolonged and extreme heat not only causes discomfort, but can also lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and even death.

High temperatures also heighten the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and respiratory distress, particularly among the elderly and people with underlying medical conditions.

Meanwhile, sudden downpours after a hot day can also impact public health.

The combination of heat and rain creates favorable conditions for the spread of bacteria, viruses, and insects, increasing the likelihood of infectious diseases such as dengue fever.

Dr. Tran Van Ngoc, chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Respiratory Society, noted that this pattern of hot days followed by evening rain can easily lead to respiratory infection.

Children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses are especially at risk, the doctor said.

To safeguard health during this erratic weather, residents should stay hydrated by drinking enough water, avoid getting chilled when it rains or during cooler nights, maintain a nutritious diet and engage in regular physical activity, and wear masks in crowded places, particularly when experiencing flu-like symptoms.

Special attention should be given to elderly individuals and those with pre-existing conditions, as they are more susceptible to severe illness.

For children, fluctuating weather often triggers upper respiratory infections and acute diarrhea.

As such, parents are advised to strengthen their children’s immune systems through nutritious meals and daily physical activity.

Additionally, they should ensure a clean and well-ventilated living environment, keep their children warm at night, and adhere to recommended vaccination schedules.

Le Dinh Quyet, head of the forecasting division at the Southern Regional Hydrometeorological Center, said that early August in the southern region has seen mostly dry weather, with some areas experiencing heatwaves.

This dry spell during the rainy season is caused by an imbalance in humidity, leading to excessive heat and evaporation.

These types of weather events typically occur one to two times a year, lasting from five to 10 days.