The scorching weather in the south and central regions is sending people to hospitals in droves, especially children and older people.

Children with diarrhea being treated at HCMC’s Pediatric Hospital II on April 20. Unusually hot, dry weather in many parts of the country is causing illness, especially among kids and older people. (Photo: SGGP)

Temperatures have soared to 40C degree in central provinces like Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, and Quang Tri and to above 38C degree  in other provinces from Thua Thien- Hue to Phu Yen.

Ho Chi Minh City and southern provinces are also experiencing sweltering weather. Meteorologists said it is unusual for April, explaining hot, dry weather usually occurs in May.

Hospitals in Thua Thien- Hue, Quang Tri and Da Nang are filled with anxious parents who bring their children with respiratory diseases.

Babies are prone to respiratory problems as well as diarrhea during hot weather.

The head of the Planning Room, Dr. Vu Quang Vinh said medical workers are worried about an increase in the incidence of hand-foot-and mouth disease.

The dry weather has also destroyed thousands of hectares of crops and provided favorable conditions for pests.

Ho Chi Minh City Tropical hospital is taking in an increasing number of children with dengue fever, with more than 30 newborns admitted on April 20 alone because of the hot, dry weather.

The encephalitis and meningitis outbreaks are also continuing.

The Ho Chi Minh Pediatrics Hospital I is chock-a-block with infants and their families, who have even occupied the corridors.

Many older people have been coming to hospitals like Nguyen Tri Phuong in District 10, Nguyen Trai in District 5, and Nhan Dan Gia Dinh in Binh Thanh District with heart, hypertension, and respiratory problems.