In response to the ongoing heatwave in India, Union Health Minister JP Nadda has issued a comprehensive advisory for state health departments, emphasizing the need for preparedness and timely response to mitigate the health impacts of extreme heat. The advisory focuses on ensuring hospitals are equipped to treat heatstroke patients nationwide, while also instructing health officials to actively collect data on heatstroke cases and deaths.
The health ministry’s advisory outlines a series of crucial steps for state health departments to implement. These include disseminating the National Action Plan on heat-related illnesses to all districts, strengthening healthcare systems’ preparedness for heat-related illnesses, and holding meetings with state and district task forces on climate change and human health. Additionally, the ministry directs health departments to organize task force meetings to update and approve heat-health action plans at the state and district levels.
The advisory also highlights the importance of early warnings. State health departments are instructed to distribute daily heatwave warnings issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) after 4 pm. The four-day forecast should be shared with health facilities, vulnerable populations, and the public to raise awareness about necessary precautions.
To ensure hospitals are equipped to handle a surge in heatstroke cases, the ministry directs health facilities to prepare for the prevention and management of severe heat-related illnesses. This includes procuring and supplying adequate quantities of ORS packs, essential medicines, IV fluids, ice packs, and all necessary equipment.
Recognizing the crucial role of electricity in maintaining hospital functionality, the advisory instructs health facilities to coordinate with electricity distribution companies to ensure uninterrupted power supply for cooling appliances. The advisory also encourages measures to reduce indoor heat and energy conservation in health facilities.
Beyond hospitals, the advisory extends recommendations for organizers of outdoor events. Event planners are advised to check forecasts, consult the local Met centre, and avoid scheduling events on days with active heatwave warnings and high humidity. Furthermore, the advisory strongly urges people to avoid outdoor events during the hottest time of day, from 12 pm to 3 pm.
For all events, the advisory stresses the importance of ensuring adequate air circulation, avoiding overcrowding, and having medical aid teams present. This comprehensive approach aims to minimize the risk of heatstroke and ensure a safe environment for all attendees.
The health ministry’s advisory underscores the importance of a proactive approach to managing the health risks associated with heatwaves. By emphasizing preparedness, data collection, and public awareness, the ministry aims to minimize the impact of extreme heat on the health of the Indian population.
