Heatwave health guidance for children and pregnant women

High summer temperatures pose serious health risks for children, whose temperature‑regulation systems are not fully developed. Symptoms of heatstroke in children include extreme skin heat, rapid breathing, confusion, seizures and loss of consciousness. Immediate actions are to move the child to a cool, shaded area, remove excess clothing, apply cold, wet compresses to the head, neck, armpits and groin, and give small sips of water if the child is conscious. Medical help should be called if confusion, vomiting, seizures, very high temperature or breathing difficulties occur.

Pregnant women also face increased danger during heatwaves. Prolonged exposure raises the risk of heat‑exhaustion, heatstroke, premature birth and low birth weight. Experts advise drinking 8‑12 glasses of water a day, more if active or outdoors, staying in shade or air‑conditioned rooms between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., wearing light breathable clothing, using cool showers or wet compresses, and avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat. Swelling of legs and feet is common; elevating the legs and wearing comfortable shoes can help. Women should seek medical care if they experience dizziness, fainting, severe headache, rapid heartbeat, persistent vomiting, or reduced fetal movement.