Everyone should be prepared, make an action plan for the heat wave… Health Minister JP Nadda issued an advisory amid the scorching heat

New Delhi: The health department has become alert in view of the scorching heat in many states of the country including the capital Delhi. Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Wednesday reviewed the heat wave situation and the preparedness of central government hospitals. Nadda directed the officials to ensure that all hospitals are ready to provide better care to the affected people. he/she also ordered that special units be started in central government-run hospitals in view of the scorching heat. Earlier this month, the Center had urged the states and union territories to implement fire and electrical safety measures in all health facilities and set up special rooms etc. for people ill due to scorching heat. Let us tell you what instructions have been given to the nodal officers of the states in view of the temperature and heat wave in the coming days.

Every district should have an action plan
The Health Ministry has instructed the states that every district official should prepare an action plan for the prevention and management of heat wave. Prepare an action plan for each city and area according to its heat index. Along with this, the states have also been instructed to hold a meeting with the state and district task force on climate change and human health.

Keep an eye on deaths due to heat wave and heat stroke
The Health Ministry has said that all states should also report data on deaths due to heat stroke related diseases. From March 1, 2024, data on heatstroke deaths should be submitted on the IHIP portal. At the same time, the advisory states that the information about the forecast issued by the Meteorological Department after 4 pm every day should reach the people. Issue health advisories from time to time to make people aware of the precautions to be taken to protect against heat stroke.

People should be made aware to avoid heat stroke
The advisory states that community health workers should be trained about measures to avoid heat stroke and awareness so that through them common people can become aware about heat stroke. To avoid this, basic information about first aid etc. should reach people. To avoid heat stroke, ORS packets, essential medicines, IV fluids, ice packs and other equipment should be purchased and procured in sufficient quantities. There should be emergency facilities in hospitals for the treatment of heat stroke patients and AC ambulances should also be arranged or purchased.

Avoid going out in the afternoon
When organizing mass gatherings or sports events in the summer season, all necessary preparations should be made to avoid heat wave by talking to health departments and local administration. Check the heat wave forecast before organizing any mass event. Avoid days on which there is a heat wave alert. Avoid planning outdoor events during the hottest time of the day, between 12 noon and 3 pm. If organizing an event, ensure adequate water and a cool place to sit.