MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday said it approves measures being done in schools to prevent illnesses caused by the intense heat in recent weeks.

These include shortened hours in school, as well as shifting to asynchronous or distance learning.

"Welcome na welcome iyan because the kids are also vulnerable to all of this. Some of our kids walk kilometers to get to school," Health Sec. Ted Herbosa said.

"Kung mahangin naman doon sa eskwelahan nila, mahangin or iyong ceiling mataas, hindi naman congested iyong classroom, I think that’s okay. They can continue pero kung iyong environment is really bad, I think that should be a decision to hold alternative methods of learning," he added.

Herbosa also welcomed measures being done in the labor sector, like heat breaks, saying heat-related illnesses are preventable.

"It’s too hot, it will affect your homeostasis or iyong balance ng body mo tapos mag-replace ka ng  water. Kung pawis na pawis ka na, mag-hydrate ka... So be conscious, listen to your body," he said.

Herbosa said senior citizens must also be protected, as they are considered vulnerable and should not be exposed to extreme heat.

Although each body responds differently to intense heat, Herbosa, who is also a doctor, shared signs that can lead to heat stroke.

"Ang feeling ng taong nahea-heat stroke, alam niyo ito, naramdamanan niyo na ito. If you've been covering an event outside in the sun, 'di ba parang pagod na pagod kayo, para kang nalalanta. Iyong fatigue mo exceptional... Parang gusto mo lang humiga, mahinang-mahina iyong pakiramdam mo. That's already heat exhaustion. That's a sign you should be resting. Pag pinilit mo pa iyon, iyon ang pwede kang mag-collapse," he said.

The official asked the public to be mindful of each other so that measures can immediately be taken in case of emergencies related to heat-related illnesses.