VIDEO: How to stay safe in extreme heat, by Aproko Doctor
Social media health educator Aproko Doctor has urged Nigerians to take precautions against extreme heat, warning that vulnerable people and outdoor workers could face serious health risks in the coming months.
In a video on Instagram, he explained that the projected 31,400 additional heat-related deaths in Nigeria between September 2026 and February 2027 were estimates, not people who had already died.
“I need to explain to you people what that number really is and what you should do,” he said, clarifying that researchers had calculated the possible additional deaths based on expected heat conditions.
Aproko Doctor urged Nigerians to check on elderly relatives, young children and people living with conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and kidney disease.
“If you have an old person, a small baby or somebody with BP, sugar or kidney problem in your house, please check on them every day, morning and night,” he advised.
He also warned outdoor workers, including dispatch riders, commercial drivers, traders, farmers and construction workers, to take precautions while working under the sun.
“Before you are thirsty, drink water,” he said, urging people to carry water bottles, wear light clothing, cover their heads and rest in shaded areas when possible.
He identified heavy sweating, dizziness, headaches, weakness and vomiting as possible warning signs of heat-related illness.
According to him, confusion, unusually hot skin or collapsing could indicate heatstroke and require urgent attention.
“If you notice anything like that, please just take them to one area under shade, pour them cold water, and then rush them to a hospital,” he said.
The doctor also cautioned people taking blood pressure medication, particularly drugs that increase urination, against stopping their prescriptions without first speaking to a doctor or pharmacist.
Calling for greater community awareness, he urged Nigerians to share the information with people whose jobs keep them outdoors.
“This period, we need to start looking out for each other,” he said.