The National Institute of Health (NIH), through its Centre for Disease Control Pakistan, has issued a nationwide advisory urging the public to take urgent precautionary measures as an intense heatwave continues to grip large parts of the country.
Climate Change and Heatwave Risks
The advisory warns that climate change is significantly increasing the frequency, duration, and severity of heatwaves, thereby elevating the risk of heat-related illnesses, including potentially fatal heatstroke. It describes heatstroke as a medical emergency that can result in organ failure, permanent disability, or death if not treated without delay.
Symptoms and Vulnerable Groups
According to the advisory, early symptoms of heatstroke may include high body temperature, hot or flushed skin, severe headache, dizziness, confusion, weakness, and incoherent speech. In some cases, sweating may be absent despite extreme heat, while in others excessive sweating may occur. The most vulnerable groups include children, elderly persons, pregnant women, outdoor labourers, athletes, and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses.
First-Aid and Medical Response
The Centre for Disease Control Pakistan has advised immediate first-aid response in suspected cases, including shifting the affected person to a shaded or cool area, removing excess clothing, and rapidly cooling the body using water, wet cloths, or fanning. It stresses that urgent medical attention must be sought, particularly in severe cases that may require hospitalisation and intravenous fluid therapy.
Precautionary Measures for the Public
Members of the public have been advised to maintain adequate hydration, avoid direct sun exposure during peak daytime hours, and wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing with head protection when outdoors. The advisory also recommends avoiding caffeine and alcoholic beverages, which can contribute to dehydration.
Preparedness for Health Authorities
Health authorities have been instructed to strengthen preparedness measures, including establishing first-aid points in high-risk areas, ensuring adequate supplies of essential medicines and fluids, and making special arrangements in hospitals to manage an expected rise in heatstroke cases.
The NIH has appealed to citizens to remain vigilant, follow precautionary guidelines, and seek immediate medical assistance if symptoms of heat-related illness appear.
