Health officials have warned that children require special attention to prevent dehydration during the current hot weather in Sri Lanka.
Dr. Deepal Perera, a specialist at the Lady Ridgeway Children’s Hospital in Colombo, advised that children should be given plenty of water and natural liquid foods to stay hydrated.
He emphasized that if a child shows signs such as drowsiness, loss of appetite, or body aches, they should be given additional water and liquid foods immediately.
Dr. Perera also recommended bathing children at least twice a day, noting that the hot weather increases the risk of skin conditions such as eczema and rashes.
He further cautioned that children participating in school sports, including running competitions and inter-house games, are particularly at risk of dehydration and heat stroke if they do not drink enough water.
“Exposure to the sun or participation in school sports competitions can trigger dehydration. Children should be encouraged to drink more water and consume natural liquid foods,” Dr. Perera explained.
He added, “If symptoms such as drowsiness, loss of appetite, or body aches appear, give children more water and liquid foods. Bathing them about twice a day for around 20 minutes can help protect them from skin diseases.
Those who do not stay properly hydrated during running competitions or inter-house sports may develop heat stroke, which can affect the heart and brain, causing convulsions, fainting, and, in severe cases, even death.”Protect Children from Dehydration During Hot Weather, Warn Health Officials
