Consultant Paediatrician Dr. Deepal Perera has warned that fluctuating weather patterns across Sri Lanka—marked by intense heat in some regions and heavy rainfall in others—are creating heightened health risks for children, particularly through dehydration and waterborne illnesses.
The island's current weather variability is intensifying health vulnerabilities among the young population, according to medical experts. Consultant Paediatrician Dr. Deepal Perera highlighted that extreme heat conditions increase dehydration risks across all age groups, including children, adults, and pregnant women. He stressed that inadequate water consumption sustained over extended periods can lead to kidney complications and warned that prolonged sun exposure without proper hydration may result in serious conditions such as heatstroke, dizziness, and seizures, which can occasionally prove fatal.
Dr. Perera recommended that adults consume at least three litres of water daily, with children's intake adjusted according to body weight. He advised carrying water bottles when venturing outdoors and emphasized the importance of increased fluid consumption for those engaged in outdoor work or activities. The medical professional also noted a concurrent surge in diarrhoeal cases during this period, linking this to water safety concerns.
To mitigate waterborne illness risks, Dr. Perera urged parents to ensure children consume only clean drinking water and properly prepared food while limiting sugary drinks and processed snacks. He recommended natural alternatives including lime juice, mandarin juice, orange juice, and king coconut water alongside nutritious options like porridge and soups. The paediatrician also suggested that increased time spent in water during hot weather can be beneficial for children, while encouraging outdoor physical activities as healthier alternatives to excessive screen time.
