Temperatures have already touched unusually high levels in some places of the country and substantial deviations from expected normal temperatures from this time of the year are also being reported from some states
AMN / WEB DESK
The India’s Health Ministry has issued a heatwave health advisory to the States and Union territories in view of the unusual high temperature in some places of the country and substantial deviation from expected normal temperature for this time of year.
In the advisory people have been asked to stay hydrated throughout the day and take oral rehydration solutions if required. They should keep their water intake high by taking seasonal fruits and vegetables with high water content.
People should consume homemade drinks like lemon water, lassi and fruit juices with some added salt. People have also been advised to wear light, loose, cotton clothing to remain cool and to cover their heads from direct sunlight.
Drawing attention to the National Action Plan on Heat-Related Illness, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan has written to the States and UTs for effective preparedness of the Health Department and health facilities to address heat impact and management of cases.
Mr Bhushan said that from 1st March this year, daily surveillance on heat-related illnesses under National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH) in all states will be conducted on Integrated Health Information Platform. The Ministry asked states that the heat alerts which are being shared should be disseminated promptly at District and health facility level to ensure implementation of Heat-related Health action plans.
It said that the health departments of the State must continue efforts on sensitization and capacity building of medical officers, health staff, and grass-root level workers on heat illness. The Ministry also instructed that health facility preparedness must be reviewed for availability of adequate quantities of essential medicines, intravenous fluids, ice packs, ORS and all necessary equipment.
Health Impacts of Heat Waves
The health impacts of Heat Waves typically involve dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke. The signs and symptoms are as follows:
- Heat Cramps: Ederna (swelling) and Syncope (Fainting) generally accompanied by fever below 39°C i.e.102°F.
- Heat Exhaustion: Fatigue, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps and sweating.
- Heat Stoke: Body temperatures of 40°C i.e. 104°F or more along with delirium, seizures or coma. This is a potential fatal condition
Recover and Build
If you think someone is suffering from the heat:
- Move the person to a cool place under the shade
- Give water or a rehydrating drink (if the person is still conscious)
- Fan the person
- Consult a doctor if symptoms get worse or are long lasting or the person is unconscious
- Do not give alcohol, caffeine or aerated drink
- Cool the person by putting a cool wet cloth on his/her face/body
- Loosen clothes for better ventilation
Emergency Kit
- Water bottle
- Umbrella/ Hat or Cap / Head Cover
- Hand Towel
- Hand Fan
- Electrolyte / Glucose / Oral Rehydration