Heatwave nearly doubles heatstroke cases in Moldova
The number of heatstroke cases in the Republic of Moldova has nearly doubled over the past week due to extreme temperatures. According to the National Center for Pre-Hospital Emergency Medical Assistance (CNAMUP), 39 cases were reported between June 29 and July 5, which is an increase of 20 cases compared to the previous week. Doctors emphasize that heatstroke is a medical emergency and urge the public to take protective measures during periods of excessive heat.
According to CNAMUP, last week's heatwave has significantly impacted the population's health, leading to an increase in ambulance interventions for individuals affected by high temperatures. Specialists warn that heatstroke can occur after prolonged exposure to heat and may result in severe complications if not treated promptly.
Doctors indicate that symptoms such as a body temperature exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, rapid breathing, or loss of consciousness require immediate medical attention. In these cases, the affected individual should be moved to a cool, well-ventilated area and cooled with compresses or other methods to lower body temperature, while also being hydrated.
If symptoms are severe or persist, it is essential to call the 112 emergency service immediately.
To help prevent heatstroke, medical professionals recommend drinking at least two to three liters of fluids per day, avoiding direct sun exposure between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM, wearing light and light-colored clothing, and using hats and sunglasses. It is also advisable to limit intense physical exertion during the day and to avoid alcoholic drinks and those high in caffeine. Special precautions should be taken for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions, as they are more vulnerable during heatwaves.
Between June 29 and July 5, the Pre-Hospital Emergency Medical Assistance Service recorded a total of 15,081 requests for help, with 2,088 of those concerning children. After providing first aid, ambulances transported 6,487 patients, including 1,301 children, to hospitals for further investigation and treatment. Additionally, 500 calls did not fall under medical-surgical emergencies.
Most ambulance interventions were for cardiovascular emergencies, totaling 2,934, including 46 cases of acute coronary syndrome. Another 2,161 requests were related to neurological emergencies, including 208 strokes. Doctors also responded to 1,715 trauma cases and 1,413 respiratory disease cases.
During the week, ambulances were called out for 173 situations caused by physical, chemical, or environmental factors. Of these, 94 involved people bitten by animals or stung by insects, and 37 were for burn injuries.
Emergency crews also responded to 94 road accidents, resulting in 122 injuries. After providing pre-hospital medical assistance, 100 victims, including 32 children, were transported to hospitals.
Additionally, 61 cases of poisoning were reported during this time frame. Most cases were related to medications (17 cases), followed by alcohol poisoning (13 cases). Doctors also dealt with four cases of carbon monoxide poisoning and three cases each of mushroom and drug poisoning.
