India Grapples with Heatwave, Records 60 Heat-Related Deaths
As scorching temperatures continue to sear India, the country has recorded a staggering 60 heat-related deaths since March 1, according to government data. Of these fatalities, 32 have been attributed to heatstroke, while the remaining 28 are suspected to have been caused by heatstroke. The states of Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan recently reported the latest two suspected heatstroke deaths.
Amid the severe heatwave, the government has issued fresh advisories to all states and Union territories, urging hospitals to prepare for an influx of health-related illnesses. The advisories emphasize the need for adequate quantities of essential medicines, intravenous fluids, ice packs, oral rehydration solutions, and other necessary equipment.
To mitigate the impact of the heatwave, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert, warning of severe heatwave conditions in parts of Rajasthan, Vidarbha-Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, West Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi from May 24-27.
The rising temperatures have led to a surge in health-related issues, with doctors reporting a 30% increase in patients suffering from gastrointestinal disorders and respiratory illnesses. Heatstroke and heat cramps are among the most common symptoms being reported.
Dr. Atul Gogia of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi emphasized the growing concern over heatstroke, highlighting symptoms such as increased body temperature, lethargy, weakness, and dryness of mouth. Dr. Ajay Agarwal of Fortis Hospital in Noida advised the public to take precautions such as drinking ample fluids, wearing protective headwear, and dressing in cotton clothing to prevent heat exhaustion.
Dr. Ramyajit Lahiri of Narayana Hospital in Kolkata reported a 30-40% increase in patients with heat-related problems, particularly among the elderly with pre-existing conditions such as chronic respiratory, heart, or kidney diseases.
The National Centre of Disease Control (NCDC) has issued guidelines for autopsy findings to establish heat-related deaths. The guidelines stipulate that the cause of death should be certified as heatstroke or hyperthermia when the measured antemortem body temperature at the time of collapse is 40.6 degrees Celsius (105.08 Fahrenheit) or higher, or when clinical history suggests elevated liver and muscle enzymes.
As the heatwave intensifies, the government and medical professionals continue to urge individuals to take necessary precautions to safeguard their health during these extreme weather conditions.
