"Drink plenty of fluids, avoid outdoor activity during peak hours": VMMC professor advises precautions amid heatwave
New Delhi, May 24
Professor of Community Medicine at VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital, V P Gautam, on Sunday advised people to take precautionary measures amid the prevailing heatwave conditions, including staying hydrated, consuming natural drinks such as shikanji and lassi and avoiding outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours.
Speaking to ANI, Gautam said there has been a rise in cases of heat-related illness (HRI) during the summer season and cautioned that such conditions could range from mild symptoms to life-threatening complications if timely care is not provided.
"Heat waves during summer are leading to more heat-related illness (HRI) cases. HRI includes six conditions, with symptoms ranging from mild, such as itchy rashes, red bumps, and muscle cramps, to severe, including exhaustion, confusion, seizures, or coma," he said.
He further stated that patients showing severe symptoms should be immediately shifted to a healthcare facility after administering basic cooling measures to reduce body temperature.
"In severe cases, patients must be taken to a healthcare facility immediately. Before that, move them to a cooler area and lower body temperature using wet towels, water spray, or a high-speed fan," he said.
Speaking on preventive care, he advised against the consumption of caffeine, alcohol and sugary drinks and instead to drink shikanji and lassi. He also advised people to wear loose-fitting and light-coloured clothes while stepping outdoors and suggested covering the head and carrying water bottles to reduce the risk of heat exposure.
He also advised the people to eat seasonal fruits like watermelon, cucumber and cantaloupe and leafy vegetables.
"For prevention, drink plenty of fluids (around 3-3.5 litres daily), ideally a glass every 30-40 minutes. Natural drinks like shikanji or lassi are good, but avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary beverages. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing, cover your head outdoors, and carry water. Avoid outdoor activity between 12 pm and 4 pm, preferring mornings or evenings. Eat seasonal fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, cucumber, cantaloupe, and leafy greens," he said.
"Hospitals have protocols, equipment, and cooling systems ready to manage HRI and heat stroke cases," he added.
Meanwhile, accoridng to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the temperature in the national capital is expected to touch 44 degrees Celsius on Sunday morning, with heatwave conditions likely to persist in several parts of north and central India.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm from Canada and visited Delhi last June. The heat was unbearable but the locals were so resilient. I tried shikanji and it really does help. Good to see public health messaging like this.
A modest suggestion: why not mention that during peak heat even air conditioned rooms can feel hot if electricity fails? Many of us rely on coolers and fans, and power cuts in this weather are brutal. Some extra tips for those without steady power would help
It's amazing how traditional wisdom is still relevant. My mother-in-law in Rajasthan always serves us ganne ka juice and kachi lassi in summer. This doctor's advice respects our cultural habits while being scientifically sound.
Good advice but very city-centric. In rural areas, people still work in fields and can't avoid outdoor activity between 12-4pm. The government should also announce heat wave relief measures for farmers and daily wage workers who have no choice but to be outside.
I grew up in Australia and we had similar heatwave warnings. What's different here is the community spirit - everyone looks out for each other during summers. Love how families here share watermelon and cooling drinks.
Thank you for these practical tips! I'm a delivery executive
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.