Mater Dei Hospital is experiencing an influx of people who are resorting to the Emergency services much higher than normal, as a result of the heat wave experienced by the Maltese islands in recent days.
Therefore, and in order to ensure the highest level of care to all patients, the Hospital Administration has decided that it can postpone some of the elective and non-urgent operations that were scheduled for tomorrow and the following days. The patients affected by this postponement will be given new appointments.
The Health Authorities reiterate their appeal to the public to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from the effects of heat and to talk to a doctor if they experience signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion. It is also recommended to maintain regular contact with the elderly and those most at risk especially if they live alone.
Heat can affect anyone, but certain people are at greater risk of serious damage. These include:
• elderly people, especially those over 75 years old
• babies and young children
• people with a chronic health condition such as respiratory or heart conditions
• people with mental health problems
• people who have a fever due to an infection
• people who abuse alcohol or use illegal drugs
• people with mobility problems
• people who are physically active such as manual workers or sportsmen The Health Authorities remind again that in order to avoid the effects of excessive heat it is important to:
• Avoids any unnecessary exposure to the sun during hot periods of the day between 11.00am to 4.00pm;
• Keeps cool by staying in the coolest parts of the house and work;
• Drink water regularly to make up for sweat loss and eat cold food; • Avoid dehydrating liquids such as alcohol, coffee, tea and soft drinks with caffeine;
• Wears light clothes;
• Avoids physical effort in the hottest times of the day;
• Walk in the shade, apply sun protection and wear a hat;
• Seek medical advice if you have any concerns.
