The Tamil Nadu state health department has issued a warning about an elevated risk of heat-related illnesses and a further increase in temperatures during the upcoming summer months. In response, it has directed all government hospitals to establish dedicated heatstroke wards ahead of the peak summer season.
Preparedness Measures for Heatwave
The directive aims to ensure timely treatment for patients suffering from heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heatstroke. District health officials have been instructed to keep emergency teams, essential medicines, and cooling facilities ready as the state intensifies its preparedness to prevent heatwave-related fatalities. The World Meteorological Organization defines a heatwave as a period of unusually high temperatures significantly above the norm or when maximum temperatures cross 45 degrees Celsius, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
ORS Distribution and ICU Facilities
To prevent dehydration among the public amid the ongoing heatwave, the Directorate of Public Health has ordered all government hospitals, from medical colleges to primary health centres, to provide oral rehydration solution (ORS) to workers engaged in agriculture and construction. Dr. K Shantharam, dean of Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, stated, "Patients affected by heatstroke will be admitted to the ICU. We have nine such units with a combined capacity of 30 beds. We have also stocked essential drugs to handle emergencies during the summer." So far, government hospitals have not reported any cases of heatstroke this season.
Dedicated Wards and Water Supply
The government has also ordered the establishment of dedicated heatstroke wards in government and district hospitals to handle heat-related emergencies. Dr. M Kavitha, dean of Kilpauk Medical College and Hospital, explained, "We have separate wards for male and female patients. Adequate drinking water is being maintained in the hospital for patients and attendants. Last year, we treated heatstroke cases, particularly during mass gatherings and outdoor events."
