In May, Suntory began setting up sections dedicated to heatstroke prevention beverages in stores. Minato Ward, Tokyo. (©Sankei by Sachiko Murata.)
Nara Medical Association's Chairman Noriaki Ando is urging the public to take precautions against pre-summer heatstroke. In a press conference on May 16, Ando explained that the period before the full onset of summer tends to see a rise in heatstroke cases. He recommended precautionary measures such as staying well-hydrated and using air conditioning.
According to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, 664 people across Japan were taken by ambulance to hospitals from April 29 to May 5. This marked an increase of approximately 180 cases compared to the same timeframe in 2023. One fatality was recorded in Kumamoto Prefecture, alongside 8 severe and 163 moderate cases.
More Cooling Shelters Needed
Chairman Ando underscored the heightened vulnerability to heatstroke when temperatures rise faster than the body can adjust. To acclimatize to the heat, he suggested moderate exercise and taking baths. Additionally, Ando emphasized the importance of acting quickly upon experiencing heatstroke symptoms like dizziness. He suggested moving to a cool environment to cool the body down. Preventive measures include the proactive use of air conditioning and fans.
Ando also noted that designated "cooling shelters" were only available in certain municipalities within Nara Prefecture. These shelters, typically public spaces like halls and libraries, serve as vital refuges during times of elevated heatstroke risk. He urged all municipalities to expedite the establishment of these shelters and to disseminate information about them to the public.
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(Read the article in Japanese.)
Author: The Sankei Shimbun
