Heatwave In UP Reports Claim Over 54 dead, 400 Hospitalised: How To Protect Yourself From Heatwave

Monday, June 19, 2023, 14:05

As temperatures reached around 40 degrees Celsius in Uttar Pradesh, more than 50 people were initially reported to have died and more than 400 were hospitalized due to severe heat conditions. According to the director of the Lucknow Health Department, the majority of patients receiving treatment complained of chest pain, respiratory difficulties, and fever [1].

It appears, however, that the cause of death was not caused by a heat wave, as reported in the most recent reports.

UPDATE: According to PTI, a medical superintendent at a district hospital in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, was removed after he linked the deaths of at least 54 people to a heatwave. Ravindra Kumar, the District Magistrate, stated that there was no solid evidence to support the assertion that extreme heat caused the deaths.

"The chief medical superintendent of the district hospital gave an unverified statement and was removed from his post," the magistrate said. "All kinds of medicines like ORS [oral rehydration solution] and other facilities have been made available at all the hospitals in the district so that people don't face any issues."

How To Protect Yourself From Heatwave

A heatwave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather that can cause severe health problems to individuals. As the world is experiencing a rise in temperature due to climate change, heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense [2].

Here are some tips on how you can stay safe in a heatwave:

1. Stay hydrated:

It is essential to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during a heatwave. Dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Drinking water helps regulate your body temperature and keeps you cool.

- Drink at least eight glasses of water a day.

- Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated drinks as they can cause dehydration.

- Eat fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and celery.

2. Stay indoors:

Staying indoors during a heatwave is crucial to avoid heat exhaustion or heatstroke. If you do not have air conditioning, find a cool place to stay, such as a library, shopping mall, or the movies [3].

- Keep your curtains and blinds closed during the day to block out the sun's heat.

- Use fans to circulate the air in your home.

- Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature.

3. Dress appropriately:

Wearing loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-coloured clothing can help you stay cool during a heatwave.

- Wear breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen.

- Avoid dark colours as they absorb heat.

- Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your head and eyes from the sun.

4. Check on vulnerable people:

It is essential to check on vulnerable people, such as the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses, during a heatwave. They are more susceptible to heat exhaustion and heatstroke [4].

- Call or visit elderly relatives or neighbours to ensure they are staying cool.

- Keep an eye on children and ensure they are drinking plenty of water.

- Contact medical professionals if you are concerned about someone's health.

On A Final Note...

Protecting yourself from a heatwave is essential to avoid heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Stay hydrated, stay indoors, dress appropriately, and check on vulnerable people. By following these points, you can stay safe and healthy during a heatwave.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.