Turkey issues heat‑stroke warnings for children and vulnerable groups at risk

Medical experts in Turkey warned that summer heat can cause serious heat‑stroke, especially in children whose temperature‑regulation systems are not fully developed. Dr. Senem Tufan Dursun of Medipol University explained that symptoms include high fever, weakness, headache, skin redness, reduced urine output and altered consciousness. She advised immediate cooling, removal of excess clothing, fluid intake and, if needed, medical attention. Preventive measures focus on keeping children out of direct sun between 10 am and 4 pm, using light‑coloured, breathable clothing, adequate hydration and sunscreen for infants older than six months; infants under six months should be protected with physical barriers such as long‑sleeved garments and shade.

Dr. Muhammed İkbal Şaşmaz of Manisa CBÜ Hafsa Sultan Hospital highlighted that the elderly, children, people with chronic illnesses and outdoor workers are also at high risk. Common signs are heat exhaustion, excessive sweating, headache, nausea, weakness and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness or coma. First‑aid steps include moving the person to a cool area, providing water or electrolyte drinks, and seeking emergency care if symptoms worsen. He recommended avoiding outdoor activity during the peak heat hours, wearing light clothing, hats, sunglasses, using sunscreen, drinking 2.5–3 liters of fluid daily and taking frequent shade breaks. Both doctors stressed that untreated heat‑stroke can be life‑threatening and urged prompt medical consultation.