With temperatures rising across the county, health authorities have issued a public advisory urging residents to take extreme precautions to avoid heatstroke and heat-related illness.
District physician (health care) Dr. TP Sreedevi warned that rising temperatures significantly increase the risk of heatstroke and burns. She emphasized that self-defense is essential to prevent physical suffering from excessive heat.
People who work outdoors are advised to reschedule duties to avoid direct sunlight, especially between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Those who must step out should use umbrellas, hats or towels as protection and keep shoes on at all times. Children and the elderly should never be left in parked vehicles, she warned.
Light-colored cotton clothing is recommended, and people should wash their hands, face, and feet frequently with clean water to stay cool. Special attention should be paid to young children, the elderly, pregnant women and individuals suffering from illness or fatigue.
The health department stressed the importance of staying hydrated. People should drink clean water at regular intervals, even if they don’t feel thirsty, because high temperatures can cause dehydration quickly. Fluid intake should increase depending on physical activity and sweating. Buttermilk, mild coconut water and lemon juice are recommended if prepared and stored hygienically. Ice used in juices must be made from safe drinking water.
Consumption of alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks should be limited. Fruits and vegetables with a high water content can help retain hydration if properly washed before use.
Dr. Sreedevi listed the warning signs of heatstroke and heat-related illness, including very high body temperature, dry and red skin, severe headache, dizziness, slow pulse, altered mental status, unconsciousness, reddened skin or blisters, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting and decreased dark-colored urine. Immediate medical attention should be sought if any of these symptoms occur, she said.
Published – 11 Feb 2026 20:19 IST