Bihar is currently experiencing intense heatwave conditions, with temperatures in Patna consistently surpassing 40 degrees Celsius for several days, causing hardships for residents.
In response, District Magistrate Tyagarajan S.M. has activated the Heatwave Action Plan, putting the district administration on high alert. Fifteen government departments have been tasked with ensuring coordinated efforts to safeguard public health.
The most vulnerable groups identified by the administration include children, pregnant women, lactating mothers, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health issues, who require special attention during this heatwave period.
Dry weather and low humidity have increased the risk of ‘loo’ (hot winds), heightening health concerns. Symptoms of heat exposure include excessive sweating, rapid breathing, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, extreme thirst, high fever, and fainting in severe cases.
Efforts have been initiated at three levels – administrative, medical college and district hospital, and community levels. Patna Civil Surgeon-cum-Chief Medical Officer Lakhindra Prasad has been tasked with educating healthcare staff on heatstroke symptoms, first aid, and emergency response procedures for prompt treatment.
Government hospitals, from medical colleges to primary health centers, have been directed to maintain sufficient stocks of life-saving medications for heatstroke treatment. Special data records for heatwave-related cases are required across healthcare facilities, with immediate admission and treatment protocols for severe instances.
Residents can access assistance through the state health helpline ‘104’, managed by the State Health Society in Patna. Authorities stress the importance of awareness, early detection, and preventive measures to reduce risks.
The district administration has instructed all relevant departments to prioritize the implementation of these measures to protect lives during the escalating heatwave conditions.
