State ramps up emergency preparedness with ORS booths, surveillance systems, and public advisories amid rising heat-related illnesses
Haryana is grappling with a severe heatwave as temperatures soar beyond 40°C, prompting health authorities to issue urgent directives to hospitals for enhanced preparedness. The move comes amid growing concerns over a potential surge in heat-related illnesses, with a strong focus on prevention, early detection, and rapid response.
Hospitals Directed to Establish Heatstroke Wards, ORS Booths
In a proactive step, all government and affiliated healthcare facilities have been instructed to set up dedicated heatstroke wards and install Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) booths. These measures aim to provide immediate, life-saving support to patients suffering from dehydration and heat exhaustion, particularly among high-risk groups such as children, the elderly, and outdoor workers.
Public Advised to Take Precautions at Home
Authorities have also urged residents to adopt preventive measures at the household level. Citizens are advised to ensure proper ventilation in homes, especially where cooling devices like air conditioners or coolers are not accessible. Public awareness campaigns are being intensified to educate people about early symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and vomiting, along with the importance of staying hydrated.
Real-Time Monitoring Under National Health Programme
To track the situation closely, a surveillance system has been activated under the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health. Hospitals are now required to report heat-related illness cases through a centralized digital platform, enabling real-time monitoring and faster decision-making. Weekly reporting has also been mandated to ensure accountability and timely intervention.
Hospitals Stock Up on Essential Supplies
According to Gurgaon’s Chief Medical Officer, Lokveer Singh, healthcare centres have been directed to maintain adequate stocks of ORS packets, essential medicines, IV fluids, and emergency equipment. Facilities must also ensure access to cold drinking water, ice packs, and well-ventilated treatment areas. Cooling devices like fans and air conditioners are being used wherever possible to stabilise patients effectively.
Mobile Health Units and Frontline Workers Deployed
On-ground efforts have intensified, with hospitals setting up specialised wards and training staff to handle heatstroke emergencies. Mobile health units are being deployed in remote and high-risk areas, while frontline workers, including ASHA and ANM personnel, are actively identifying and reporting suspected cases in real time.
Cooling Centres and Public Relief Measures Rolled Out
In addition to healthcare preparedness, the administration is establishing temporary cooling centres and water kiosks across public spaces. Alerts and advisories are being widely circulated through various media platforms to keep residents informed and safe during the ongoing heatwave.
Rising Cases Raise Alarm Among Doctors
Doctors across the state have reported a noticeable spike in patients exhibiting symptoms such as dehydration, dizziness, vomiting, and fatigue. Medical experts warn that without timely treatment, these conditions can escalate into life-threatening emergencies, highlighting the critical need for both public awareness and a robust healthcare response during peak summer months.
