Heatwave : Doctors sound alarm on heat illnesses as Kashmir sizzles

Srinagar, July 6: As Kashmir grapples with an unrelenting heatwave, medical professionals are urging parents and the wider public to take critical precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses, particularly among children and vulnerable populations.Dr Yasir Wani, Consultant Paediatrician with the Department of Health, emphasised that infants and young children are particularly susceptible to high temperatures and dehydration. “For babies under six months, frequent breastfeeding or formula feeding is essential—water should not be given unless specifically advised by a doctor,” he stated.For children older than six months, adequate hydration is vital. “Offer small sips of water regularly and ensure those above one year are drinking sufficient fluids, especially during playtime. Look out for signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, fewer wet nappies, sunken eyes, irritability, or lethargy. Medical attention should be sought if these symptoms persist,” he warned. Dr Wani advised parents to dress children in lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-coloured clothing, preferably cotton. “When outdoors, use wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, or UV-protective clothing. Keep children shaded using stroller canopies, umbrellas, or portable shade tents.”To stay cool, he recommended remaining in air-conditioned environments, when possible, such as at home, malls, or libraries. “In the absence of air-conditioning, use fans, close blinds during the day, and ventilate rooms at night.”He also stressed never to leave children unattended in parked vehicles, even briefly. “Temperatures inside cars can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.” For children over six months, a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) should be applied every two hours or after sweating. However, direct sunlight must be avoided entirely for babies under six months. “Limit outdoor activities during the peak heat hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and schedule outings during early morning or evening,” he added. Dr Wani also cautioned parents to be alert for signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy sweating, pale or clammy skin, weakness, nausea, dizziness, or headache. “In such cases, move the child to a cool area, loosen their clothing, and provide water if appropriate.” “If a child shows signs of heatstroke—such as a high temperature above 39.4°C (103°F), dry hot skin, rapid pulse, confusion, or unconsciousness—seek immediate hospital care. While waiting, try to cool the child with water or ice packs.” Meanwhile, Dr S. Muhammad Salim Khan, Professor and Head of the Department of Community Medicine at Government Medical College, Srinagar, highlighted that Kashmir, traditionally a temperate region, is now experiencing uncharacteristically high temperatures due to global climate change. “Rising temperatures are increasing evaporation from water bodies, which in turn leads to high humidity—worsening the impact on human health,” Dr Khan said. He stressed the need to maintain hydration and restore electrolytes naturally. “Consume plain water and homemade drinks such as lassi, lemon water, coconut water, and ORS. Avoid sugary packaged juices and soft drinks, which can worsen dehydration and increase the risk of obesity and fatty liver disease.” Dr Khan also advised limiting intake of tea and coffee. “If consumed, follow it with plenty of water to flush waste products. Ideally, one should drink 30 to 40 ml of water per kilogram of body weight—for instance, a person weighing 70 kg should drink around 2.5 to 3 litres daily.” With temperatures soaring and little respite in sight, doctors reiterated the need for collective awareness and timely action to prevent avoidable cases of heat-related illness, especially among Kashmir’s most vulnerable.