The HSE has issued health advice to areas affected by a reduced or restricted water supply.

As a result of the continuing hot and dry weather, a Water Conservation Order is now in place in the greater Dublin area, which includes a hosepipe ban. It will remain in place until at least July 31, and depending on water supplies, this order may be extended to other areas too.

According to Dr Kevin Kelleher of the HSE, who is also the director of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre, while many people are enjoying the hot weather, it can have ‘a significant effect' on people's health.

"Those with a serious chronic illness, older people, babies and young children are especially at risk from the consequences of overheating or heat exhaustion. Ongoing high temperatures are also seeing increased demand on water supplies, but people should ensure they drink enough, drink the right things and keep hydrated, while using water wisely," he noted.

The HSE has emphasised the importance of staying hydrated. It said that it is vital that everyone has enough water to drink and suggested filling jugs and containers of water and leaving them in the fridge. It also reminded people that it is best not to drink tea, coffee and alcohol as these can all add to dehydration.

If Irish Water or your local authority delivers water by tank to your area, you should boil before use. If you need to boil the water from your drinking water tap, you will be told to do this by Irish Water or your local authority.

If a boil water notice comes into effect, you should boil your water before drinking, brushing teeth, and preparing food and ice.

If you use an alternative water source, such as an old well, you should be sure that it is safe to drink. If in any doubt, boil first. Do not consume untreated water from a lake, river, spring or unsupervised well like a holy well.

When keeping babies hydrated, if they are formula fed, bottled water can be used to make up the formula. It is best not to use bottled water labeled as ‘natural mineral water' as this can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals. However, the HSE said that these waters can be used in an emergency.

If bottled water is used to make up formula, it should be boiled once and cooled in the normal way. Do not re-boil.

When it comes to hand hygiene, the HSE reminded people that this is important before preparing food, eating food, after using the toilet and after changing nappies. Water and soap should be used. However, if you do not have enough running water to wash, use an alcohol-based hand gel.

The HSE also reminded people that it is important to keep cool. A short shower can help and babies can be sponged down with cool water.

For more information on dehydration, click here

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