Record high temperature of 34°C and a heat index reaching 47°C (116.6°F).

ORANJESTAD— The Department of Public Health (DVG) urges the community to remain vigilant, as high temperatures combined with low humidity can lead to various health issues, particularly during prolonged periods of excessively abnormal heat.

This is a heatwave that affects people and animals.

It affects people with chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, and asthma, but also those whose work is physically heavy and outdoors.

Other risk groups are the elderly, infants, young children, and overweight and obese people. They are at risk of health problems during the hottest days of the year or during heat stroke.
During days of excessive heat or when staying in the sun for a long time, our body sweats more than normal, lose more fluid, and makes us feel unwell. When we talk about not feeling well, we refer to headaches, dizziness, nausea, fainting, and even a stroke due to severe heat conditions.

Heatstroke: A severe condition caused by heat exposure.

Heatstroke is a condition caused by the body overheating. It can happen if body temperature rises to 104°F (40 °C) or higher, and damages the control center that regulates body temperature. This control center is located in our brain. A person may exhibit the following symptoms: fever, dry, red skin, rapid breathing, heart and kidney problems, confusion, diarrhea, and vomiting. In case of heatstroke, the person is at risk of brain damage and even death.

What to do in case of heatstroke?

  • Seek immediate medical attention;
  • Keep the person calm and cool;
  • Loosen the clothes on his body;
  • Cool the body with a wet napkin/cloth (with cold or tap water);
  • Ice or ice packs can be placed under the arms, neck, back, stomach, and/or legs;
  • If the person is conscious, drink water that is not too cold;
  • Let the person lie flat and lift his legs.

Because of the extreme heat that Aruba is currently experiencing, which can affect both human and animal health, the Department of Public Health is advising the public to stay indoors during the hours of 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, when the sun is at its fiercest. 

Drink plenty of fluids and limit physical activity during the hottest hours of the day.

Pay extra attention to our children and older adults so that they are well hydrated, and in case of discomfort or health problems, seek medical assistance via a family doctor or first aid.

For more information:

  • Like our Facebook page. Public Health Directorate DVG Aruba
  • Follow us on Instagram directie_volksgezondheid_aruba
  • Visit our website www.dvg.aw
  • Call us at 5224200.
  • Mail us at servicio@dvg.aw
Heatwave