Department of Health Debunks Viral FB Post on Drinking Cold Water during Hot Weather

by: Edjun Mariposque ****

April 30, 2024

2–3 minutes

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In the midst of scorching temperatures reaching up to 40°C, the Department of Health (DOH) has stepped forward to dispel misinformation circulating on social media regarding health risks associated with cooling down in extreme heat.

Contrary to a viral Facebook post that has been widely shared, the DOH assured the public on Wednesday that it is perfectly safe to cool down and hydrate with cold water immediately after being outdoors in hot weather.

Maria Rosario Vergeire, the Officer-in-Charge at the Department of Health, addressed the issue during a media forum on Monday, denouncing the false claims perpetuated by the viral chain message.

The erroneous advisory, which has been proliferating across Facebook, warns individuals against drinking cold water when outdoor temperatures soar between 38 to 40°C, alleging that it could lead to blood vessel ruptures. Additionally, the post advises people to wait 30 minutes before bathing in cold water to mitigate potential health risks from exposure to high temperatures.

However, Vergeire stressed that these claims are unfounded and lack scientific basis. She emphasized that there is no evidence to support the notion that consuming cold water or bathing immediately after exposure to extreme heat poses any danger to health.

The DOH’s clarification comes amidst concerns over the rising temperatures and the importance of staying hydrated and cool during periods of intense heat. With the onset of hotter climates globally, accurate information regarding heat-related health risks is crucial for public safety.

Officials urge the public to rely on credible sources for information related to health and wellness, cautioning against the spread of misinformation on social media platforms.

As temperatures continue to soar, the Department of Health reaffirms its commitment to providing accurate guidance and information to ensure the well-being of the public, particularly during periods of extreme weather conditions.

In conclusion, while the heatwave persists, individuals can rest assured that cooling down with cold water and staying hydrated remain safe practices, debunking the false claims propagated by viral social media posts.

#Edjun Mariposque

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