Scorching temps lead to 13 new heatstroke cases
15% to 20% increase in heatstroke cases compared to last year; officials say other summer-related ailments also on the rise MERCURY CLIMBING
Residents of Maharashtra are reeling under the scorching heat, with the Public Health Department already recording 13 new heatstroke cases.
There has been a 15% to 20% increase in heatstroke cases compared to last year, and although no deaths have been recorded yet, the early onset of summer has raised concerns.
Most districts in the state have already started to report heatstroke cases. Beed has recorded the highest number of cases at four, followed by Raigad (two). Ahmednagar, Akola, Amravati, Bhandara, Chandrapur, Satara and Dhule have each reported one case so far.
A health official said his department has instructed medical officers to keep a close eye on heatstroke cases and make people aware of summer dos and don’ts.
“A 21-year-old man from Akola is a suspected hestroke case, with symptoms of vomiting, abdominal pain, fever and diarrhoea. The patient was working in the brick kiln industry, where temperatures are usually high. He was hospitalised for a few hours, admitted during the day and released by evening,” he said.
“Along with heatstroke, other heat-related ailments and hospitalisations have started since first week of March. Heat exhaustion, dehydration, gastroenteritis, and heat cramp cases are also being reported,” the official said.
Several places in Maharashtra have witnessed scorching day temperatures, crossing the 40°C-mark for the past two weeks.
“The increase in heatstroke cases by 15-20% compared to last year is concerning. It’s essential to raise awareness about heatrelated illnesses and encourage people to stay hydrated, seek shade, and avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially during peak hours,” said a senior doctor from the state-run JJ Hospital.
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