Avoid alcohol, tea, and caffeine: Telangana health department advisory amid heat wave warning

The Telangana government has set up heat wave emergency measures, including dedicated hospital beds, IV fluids, and ORS sachets distributed by health workers. Authorities urge vigilance and reporting of severe cases for timely treatment

Sumit Jha

Published Mar 27, 2025 | 8:00 AM ⚊ Updated Mar 27, 2025 | 8:00 AM

Heatwave. (Representational/ iStock)

Synopsis: The Telangana Health Department has issued a heat wave advisory due to a predicted 2-3°C rise in temperatures over the next three days. Citizens are advised to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities, and be aware of heat-related illnesses. Precautionary measures include wearing light clothing, avoiding peak heat hours, and recognising symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and rapid heartbeat, which require immediate medical attention.

With a predicted rise in maximum temperatures by 2-3°C over the next three days, the Telangana Health Department has issued a heat wave advisory to protect citizens from extreme heat-related illnesses. The advisory emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activities, and recognizing early signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Precautionary measures recommended

The health department has outlined a series of Do’s and Don’ts to help people cope with the heat wave:

Do’s:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, ORS, and homemade hydrating drinks like buttermilk, lemon water, and fruit juices. Carry water while traveling.
Eat Smart: Consume seasonal fruits and vegetables rich in water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and pineapples.
Dress Appropriately: Wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothes and cover your head with an umbrella, cap, or scarf when outdoors.
Stay Indoors: Remain in well-ventilated and cool spaces, keeping windows and curtains closed during the day to reduce heat exposure.
Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates via radio, TV, newspapers, or the India Meteorological Department’s website (mausam.imd.gov.in).

Don’ts:

Avoid stepping out between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM, the hottest hours of the day.
Refrain from strenuous outdoor activities in the afternoon.
Do not walk barefoot on hot surfaces.
Avoid cooking during peak heat hours without proper ventilation.
Say no to alcohol, tea, coffee, and sugary drinks, as they cause dehydration.
Steer clear of high-protein, spicy, salty, and stale food, which can increase body heat.

Recognising heat-related illnesses

The advisory warns of potential heat-related health risks, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Symptoms include:

Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and fainting
Hot, red, and dry skin
Severe headaches and muscle cramps
Rapid heartbeat and shallow breathing
Altered mental state, confusion, and even seizures

In case of any of these symptoms, immediate medical attention at a government health facility is advised.

Government readiness and public health measures

The Telangana government has put special arrangements in place to tackle heat wave emergencies. Public hospitals are equipped with dedicated beds, IV fluids, and essential medicines, while ORS sachets are being distributed through ANMs, ASHAs, and Anganwadi workers to assist vulnerable populations.

Authorities urge the public to adhere to safety measures and remain vigilant against heat-related illnesses. Citizens are encouraged to report severe cases to nearest health centers for prompt treatment.

(Edited by Ananya Rao)