Nigerian babies at risk of death as heatwave worsens—experts warn

Paediatricians have warned that premature babies and formula-fed infants face higher risks due to the ongoing extreme temperatures.

Experts say heatwaves negatively impact all, but newborns and elderly individuals remain the most vulnerable to heat-related complications.

They warned that exposure of young children to excessive heat could lead to food contamination and serious health risks.

Heatwaves, lasting several days, increase heat-related deaths and pose serious threats to society, according to the World Health Organisation.

WHO describes heatwaves as one of the deadliest natural hazards, often underestimated due to their hidden impact.

The health body has issued safety guidelines to help people cope with rising temperatures and prevent heat-related illnesses.

A Professor of Paediatric Surgery at Bayero University, Kano, Aminu Mohammad, said newborns are more vulnerable to heat stress.

He explained that newborns have thinner skin, which absorbs heat rapidly, increasing their risk of overheating.

Mohammad listed dehydration, heat exhaustion, and difficulty in breastfeeding or eating as key risks for newborns.

“Newborns lose moisture through breathing, sweating, and electrolyte imbalances, making them prone to dehydration,” he said.

Electrolytes are vital for muscle function, including the heart, and imbalances can impair bodily processes, he explained.

Rapid respiration and insensible water loss through the skin further increase dehydration risks in newborns.

“Heat-exposed newborns can develop exhaustion, showing lethargy, irritability, or dry skin,” Mohammad warned.

He noted that severe dehydration affects feeding and fluid intake, making survival more difficult.

Preterm babies face greater risks, as they struggle to breastfeed and maintain adequate hydration.

If a mother is dehydrated, her breast milk supply may reduce, worsening dehydration in her baby.

Formula-fed infants also face risks, as extreme heat increases bacterial contamination in stored or prepared formula.

Ingesting contaminated formula may cause diarrhea, worsening dehydration and leading to severe kidney complications.

“Severe dehydration can reduce blood volume, impair kidney function, and trigger acute kidney injury,” he added.

Consultant Paediatrician, Dr Ayodele Renner, said children under five also suffer extreme heat effects.

“Young children lose significant water through the skin, making them more susceptible to dehydration,” he stated.

He explained that excessive sweating could cause heat rashes, which are painful and uncomfortable for infants.

In severe cases, children may suffer heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and dehydration, leading to confusion or unconsciousness.

“Signs of heat exhaustion in infants include fussiness, irritability, and excessive crying,” Renner said.

Parents should check for reduced wet diapers, which could indicate dehydration in newborns.

In older children, symptoms may include thirst, lethargy, dizziness, or confusion.

“If a child faints or becomes unresponsive, seek medical attention immediately,” Renner advised.

He urged parents to keep babies in shaded, cool areas and avoid direct sunlight exposure.

“Use fans or air conditioning to regulate indoor temperatures,” he recommended.

Renner emphasized the importance of hydration and regular intake of water or natural fruit juice.

“Since children sweat more during heatwaves, they need extra fluids to stay hydrated,” he said.

He advised parents to dress children in light, breathable fabrics like cotton for better temperature regulation.

“A cool or lukewarm bath can help lower body temperature and prevent heat-related illnesses,” Renner added.

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