Intense heat: Kerala Health dept issues guidelines

The Health department has cautioned people to take adequate precautions as intense summer heat is being reported from across the State. People should adopt self-protective measures to beat the heat so as to avoid issues such as sunburn caused by rising temperatures.

People should avoid being in the direct sun between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Special care should be taken to protect children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with serious illnesses from the effect of heat.

People who work outdoors should consider rescheduling their work hours to early mornings and evenings so as to minimise the effect of direct sun. Excessive loss of body fluids through sweating can lead to dehydration and hence it is important to drink plenty of water even if one does not feel thirsty.

The Health department has also warned that dehydration, sunburn, and heatstroke can occur even if one is indoors and not being exposed to direct sun. This is especially so in the case of young children, the elderly, and patients. Hence adequate fluid intake should be ensured for these vulnerable people by increasing their uptake of salted rice gruel water, buttermilk, lemonade, and similar drinks.

Proper ventilation should be ensured inside homes. As heatstroke can affect humans as well as animals, plenty of drinking water should be provided for pets and birds. It would be better to stay away from excessively sugary or carbonated drinks as these can lead to dehydration.

People should watch out for symptoms such as skin burns, fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting, unusual sweating, severe thirst, reduced urination, dark-coloured urine, rapid heartbeat, and loss of consciousness.

Anyone who may be displaying such symptoms should be moved to a shaded area, allowed to rest and given plenty of water to drink. Avoid thick or heat-retaining clothing. Wipe the body with cool water, ensure adequate airflow by turning on the fan or air conditioners. Medical attention should be sought if necessary.