Bathinda: With temperatures soaring across Punjab and touching extreme levels in several districts, health authorities have appealed to residents to take extra precautions against heat-related illnesses, especially for children, senior citizens and newborns.
Senior Medical Officer of Government Hospital Bathinda, Dr. Arun Bansal, said the recent surge in temperatures has already begun reflecting in hospital outpatient departments, with an increasing number of patients seeking treatment for dehydration and seasonal ailments.
“Punjab witnessed temperatures reaching nearly 47 degrees Celsius on Friday. People should avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours, particularly children and elderly family members, who are more vulnerable to heat-related complications,” Dr. Bansal advised.
Doctors have recommended adopting simple preventive measures such as wearing light-coloured and loose-fitting clothes, drinking sufficient water throughout the day and including water-rich fruits in daily meals to maintain hydration. Citizens have also been urged to avoid consuming oily food and unhygienic street snacks, which can aggravate digestive problems during the summer months.
Medical officials have observed a noticeable increase in diarrhoea cases among children as temperatures continue to rise. Since schools are currently closed, parents have been advised to discourage children from playing outdoors during the hottest part of the day and instead encourage indoor activities.
Dr. Bansal said the hospital has adequate stocks of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), medicines and other essential supplies to manage heat-related illnesses and dehydration cases. Health teams are also prepared to respond to any increase in patient load if temperatures remain high.
Special attention has been advised for newborns and infants. Mothers have been encouraged to continue exclusive breastfeeding, as it remains one of the most effective ways to keep babies hydrated and protected during extreme summer conditions.
Health experts have reiterated that timely precautions can significantly reduce the risk of heatstroke, dehydration and gastrointestinal infections, urging people to remain vigilant until weather conditions improve.
