As temperatures soar to nearly 40°C in the coastal region, residents face a significant risk of heat stroke. To address this concern, precautionary measures are being implemented, including the allocation of special beds for potential heat stroke victims across the twin districts.
At Wenlock Hospital in Mangaluru, preparations have been made with an intensive care unit (ICU) consisting of eight beds and a general ward with 18 beds. Additionally, two beds each have been designated in taluk hospitals at Beltangady, Sullia, Puttur, Bantwal, Udupi, Karkala, and Kundapur. These specialized facilities are equipped with essential medicines, air conditioning, and emergency services, with expert medical staff on standby.
Children are identified as particularly vulnerable to heat stroke, displaying symptoms such as unconsciousness, muscle cramps, seizures, irritability, headaches, excessive sweating, weakness, dizziness, elevated pulse and heart rate, vomiting, and difficulty in standing. Body temperatures may exceed 40.5°C. Immediate first aid for heat stroke includes cooling the body with a damp cloth, elevating the legs slightly while resting, and utilizing a fan. It’s crucial to refrain from providing food or water if the child is unconscious and seek urgent medical attention if the condition worsens.
Health officials emphasize that heat stroke can be fatal if body temperatures reach 41.5°C or higher. They advise avoiding strenuous activities during the afternoon, increasing water intake, avoiding sugary and carbonated drinks to prevent dehydration, and wearing light-colored clothing. Outdoor workers are encouraged to take regular breaks.
Dr. Timmaiah, the District Health Officer (DHO) of Dakshina Kannada, assured, “No cases of heat stroke have been reported so far in Dakshina Kannada. Nonetheless, the health department is implementing preventive measures.”
Similarly, Dr. I P Gadad, the DHO of Udupi, affirmed, “Two beds in all taluk hospitals and five beds in the district hospitals are reserved for heat stroke patients. No cases of heat stroke have been reported yet.”
