In light of the scorching heat experienced across various districts in Kerala, the Kerala Health Department has issued an advisory, urging people to take precautions against heatstroke and dehydration.

The heatwave situation in various districts was reviewed and appropriate steps to manage the crisis were discussed at a high-level meeting conducted by Health Minister Veena George on Monday. 

People are encouraged to avoid going out in the sun between 11 am and 3 p.m. Special care should be exercised, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases, to avoid health problems such as dehydration and stroke. Work schedules for outdoor workers should be adjusted to avoid peak sun exposure, with frequent breaks in shaded areas. Additionally, people are advised to wear light, loose clothing and never step out without an umbrella or hat. 

Increasing fluid intake with drinks like lime juice or buttermilk, and including fruits high in water content in the diet can help maintain hydration and keep heat-related issues at bay. Furthermore, children should not be allowed to play outdoors.

Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause serious health problems like sunburn or heatstroke. 

People experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, headache, nausea, increased heartbeat, and disorientation from the intense heat should be made to rest under a fan and then seek medical advice. 

Proper ventilation in houses must be ensured by keeping the windows open. When outside, only cold drinks which are hygienically prepared and safe to drink should be preferred.

(Input from various media sources)

(Rehash/Dr. Vineesha V/MSM)