What Health Ministry's Guidelines For Extreme Heat Wave In Several Indian States Say

With temperatures rising and summer approaching, the Union Health Ministry has issued a set of guidelines to prevent heat-related illnesses.

On Wednesday, April 3, the ministry wrote in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), that Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya said “Union Health Minister, Dr @mansukhmandviya, held a review meeting today with stakeholders to assess their preparedness in tackling heat-related illnesses stemming from heat waves and to discuss the action plan for the upcoming summer season.”

This comes days after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a warning of heatwaves and ‘extreme heat’ in the country between April and June. The IMD has issued a heatwave warning for the southern part of West Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Goa, among others, in its forecast.

The guidelines issued by the Union government advise people to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, avoid activities in the sun and avoid going outdoors in the afternoon.”

The health ministry also recommended exercising extra caution and monitoring the health of people who may be at risk due to their age or weak immunity.

• Make it a habit to drink the recommended daily amount of water and healthy drinks.
• Wear light, light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton clothes.
• If you must go out in the sun, do not forget to wear suitable quality goggles, an umbrella or hat, shoes or slippers to protect your eyes.
• Avoid going outside in strong sunlight and doing strenuous activities.
• Carry a water bottle with you even when walking short distances.
• Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks in hot weather as they dehydrate the body.
• Avoid protein-containing foods and leftovers.
• Wear a hat or umbrella when you are out in the sun and cover your head, neck, face and limbs with a damp cloth.
• Do not leave children or pets in vehicles that you park and leave.
• If you feel faint, dizzy or unwell, go to the hospital immediately.
• Drink homemade drinks like ORS, lassi, rice water, lemon water, buttermilk etc. This helps in rehydrating the body.
• Give animals water to drink.
• Use curtains, blinds or sunshades to keep your home cool and keep windows open at night.
• Take frequent baths in cool water during hot weather.

Besides the Centre, Karnataka has also issued guidelines for the state following the IMD alert. A circular issued by the Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority urges people to:

1. Stay hydrated and drink water
2. Avoid aerated drinks
3. Seek medical attention if you feel dizzy