The state health department of Maharashtra has recorded 270 heatstroke cases and 17 deaths across the state from March 1 to May 26 this year. Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district emerged as the worst affected, reporting 50 cases and two fatalities.
Official Data on Heatstroke Cases
According to official figures, of the 17 deaths, 12 are classified as suspected and five as confirmed. District-wise data reveals that Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar recorded the highest number of cases at 50, followed by Nandurbar with 26, Nashik with 20, and Gadchiroli with 19. Wardha and Buldhana each reported 18 cases.
Suspected and Confirmed Deaths
Among the 12 suspected deaths, two each were reported from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Akola, Latur, and Jalgaon. One suspected death each occurred in Yavatmal, Solapur, Nagpur, and Gadchiroli. Of the five confirmed deaths, Akola reported two, while Latur, Gadchiroli, and Jalgaon each reported one.
Health Advisory and Precautions
Dr. Sandeep Sangale, Joint Director of Health Services, Maharashtra, stated, “In case of heatstroke, the central health ministry’s advisory recommends immediate first aid measures. These include moving the person to an open and well-ventilated area, removing unnecessary clothing, and trying to lower body temperature below 101°F. Use a fan while wetting the skin with water using a sponge or towel. The advisory warns against applying ice packs or immersing a newborn or baby in water, as this may cause hypothermia.”
Extreme heat can affect the body in multiple ways, ranging from dehydration and exhaustion to severe heatstroke, which can be life-threatening. Dr. Mahendra Dadke, Consultant in Internal Medicine at Jupiter Hospital, noted, “During the peak heat period, there was a noticeable increase in patients reporting dizziness, weakness, headaches, and low blood pressure. With the recent weather change, these cases are now declining. The recent rain spell and resultant drop in temperatures have reduced stress on the body, especially among the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.”
Health Challenges from Weather Fluctuations
Doctors emphasized that while the recent rainfall and temperature drop provided relief from the heat, sudden weather changes can bring their own health challenges. Dr. Aparna Kodre, Senior Consultant in the Medicine Department at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre, highlighted an increase in airborne infections. “The sudden weather fluctuations have resulted in more cases of flu, pharyngitis, enteritis, as well as flare-ups of asthma and COPD. If fever persists for more than 48 hours, patients should consult a doctor. Post-rain humidity can also lead to fatigue and discomfort, making it important to stay adequately hydrated,” she said.
Health experts stressed that simple precautions like maintaining proper hydration, avoiding contaminated food and drinks, and following basic hygiene practices can help prevent both heat-related illnesses and infections during this transitional period.
