A surge of heat stroke patients is recorded at the Emergency Department of Bạch Mai Hospital in Hà Nội during particularly hot days. — VNA/VNS Photo Dương Ngọc

HÀ NỘI — The Ministry of Health has ordered health facilities to map out response plans for a possible water shortage amid forecasts of a prolonged heatwave expected to hit the country in the coming days, especially in the central region.

The ministry asked provincial health departments to ensure there will be an adequate supply of water and that hospitals and health stations throughout the country pay heed to proper hygiene.

Health officers were tasked with offering guidance on how to keep hydrated and avoid heat stroke. They will also instruct people to store clean water and preserve food on hot days.

Sunstroke and diarrhea peak during the summer, prompting the health ministry to ask health facilities to set up mobile quick-response teams and stock up on supplies.

The National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting warned that intense heat was expected across the country in the coming days, particularly in central Việt Nam. Rivers in the south central and Central Highlands regions, which were already low, would continue to plummet, causing severe drought and water shortages. — VNS