Da Nang is experiencing cold wave conditions and drizzle accompanied by strong winds that can affect the health of local residents, make some health problems worse and even lead to serious complications. Older adults, children and people with certain underlying health conditions are more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather. Clinically extremely vulnerable people, including older adults and children, are urged to take extra precaution during cold weather to ensure they don’t get too cold when they are outside. People exposed to cold weather for prolonged periods can lose body heat and develop hypothermia, clinicians warn.

An older woman underwent medical examinations at the Da Nang General Hospital on Wednesday morning. Photo: T.S

From February 21 to 23, the Da Nang General Hospital witnessed a rise of 10 to 15% in the number of outpatients and inpatients compared to normal days, and the majority of whom were older adults and people with health conditions. In a similar vein, the Da Nang Maternity and Paediatrics Hospital on February 21 and 22 saw a 20% increase in the number of outpatient visits and hospital admissions compared to previous days. These patients mainly suffered from respiratory infections, digestive disorders, and allergies and other diseases.

As for grassroots healthcare facilities, the Man Thai Ward Medical Station in Son Tra District reported a significant increase in number of people seeking health advice over the phone on how to avoid falling sick during extreme cold weather.

Doctor Le Van Trung Son from the Man Thai Ward Medical Station said that people are advised to keep their body warm as the weather is becoming colder. “If you show signs of hypothermia or heart or breathing problems, seek medical help immediately. People should get enough nutrients, and exercise regularly in order to keep them healthy during cold weather”. Doctor Trung recommended.

Health experts are urging Da Nang residents to stay alert and take extra precautions to keep them safe and healthy as a wave of cold weather hitting the city this week poses health risks, particularly to people in vulnerable situations. 

Cold weather increases the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory disease. Anyone can be affected by cold temperatures at home, at work, while commuting or during leisure activities. Those most at risk of cold-related illness include elderly people, children, and people who have chronic diseases or physical or mental limitations.

Doctor Nguyen Thanh Trung, the Deputy Director of the Da Nang General Hospital, said that the weather in Da Nang becomes more extreme during this year's time period compared to last year's. He remarked that the city has witnessed a sudden change in weather since Sunday, February 21 and its temperatures dip below 20 degrees Celsius.

Doctor Trung raised concerns that a sudden drop in temperature, which Da Nang is experiencing, can make local residents more prone to sickness. Sudden drop in temperature reduces humidity levels. This makes viruses stronger and immune system weaker, making people fall sick, especially senior citizens, and people with health conditions. He stated that clinically extremely vulnerable people have the highest risk of developing hypothermia and cardiovascular diseases during extreme cold weather, thereby urging the elderly and people with underlying medical conditions to keep their body warm, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during cold weather.

Reporting by THANH VAN – Translating by H.L