Mohali, May 18:- District Health department has once again advised district residents to avoid sun exposure and stay indoors as much as possible as heat wave conditions during these days could lead to severe to moderate health concerns for vulnerable people. Civil Surgeon Dr Sangeeta Jain said that the weather is usually very hot during these days, so people should protect themselves from the heat wave. She added that the effect of the heat wave could be more on the elderly above 65 and children, so measures need to be taken to avoid heat. She added that the District Health Department had already made adequate arrangements in the government health institutions to deal with potential health hazards during this season so that immediate medical assistance could be ensured for the affected people.
"People who may be most affected by the heat include pregnant newborns, women, laborers, farmers or people working in the open air, the homeless, people living on the roadsides or on the sidewalks, in harsh climates, People suffering from mental or physical illness especially those suffering from heart disease or high blood pressure, people suffering from obesity. Such people may develop dehydration, which can lead to heatstroke.” Dr Jain said. She added that due to heat the temperature rises which can cause dehydration in the body; the person may feel dizzy and may fall unconscious. She said that due to severe heat, some illnesses may occur like dizziness, headache and vomiting, red, hot and dry skin, chronic diseases, muscle weakness etc. Medical Helpline No 104 may be contacted for any type of medical information and 108 for Medical ambulance.

Do’s
Keep your home cool. Keep windows and doors closed during the day. Drink plenty of water, lassi, lemonade and other fluids. Drink water every half hour. Take water along when going out. Keep the body cool. Wear light colored clothing. Wear glasses and keep your head covered when going out. If outdoors, find a cool place to sit, such as a tree or other shade. Eat seasonal fruits. Don't go out barefoot.

Don'ts
Avoid going out during severe heat. Do not leave children or animals in a parked vehicle. Don't go out in the hot sun. Avoid alcohol, tea and coffee. Avoid strenuous physical activity as much as possible. Avoid cooking during the hottest time. Keep the kitchen area ventilated.