As a severe heatwave grips northern India, leading to a surge in heatstroke cases, the Union Health Ministry has directed central government-run hospitals to prioritize these patients. Health Minister JP Nadda reviewed the situation and instructed the establishment of special heatwave units in these hospitals to ensure optimal care for those affected.

In Delhi alone, 20 deaths have been reported from three major hospitals this summer due to heat-related issues. The Delhi Disaster Management Authority has released guidelines to help residents protect themselves from heatstroke.

At the state-run Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, 45 patients have been admitted with heat-related problems since May 27. The hospital has reported nine deaths, seven of which occurred in the past two days. Additionally, Safdarjung Hospital has seen nine deaths this summer, including five on Wednesday, and Lok Nayak Hospital reported two deaths in the past week.

Other hospitals in the national capital have also admitted patients presenting with heatstroke symptoms.

High Mortality Rate

Dr. Ajay Shukla, medical superintendent of Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, highlighted the high mortality rate in heatstroke cases, estimated at 60-70%. "If patients arrive late, multiple organ failure can occur. Many of these patients are migrant laborers, and the symptoms of heatstroke are often missed or mistaken for other conditions. Awareness is crucial."

Dr. Shukla emphasized the need for immediate cooling measures. "We need to educate the public. If heatstroke is suspected, cooling should start immediately using water and ice while transporting the patient to the hospital. Ambulances are now equipped to start cooling upon reaching patients."

The Delhi Disaster Management Authority advises against outdoor activities between noon and 3 PM and recommends frequent hydration with water and oral rehydration solutions like lassi, lemon water, and buttermilk. It also advises avoiding alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks. Light-colored, loose, cotton clothing, along with goggles and umbrellas, are recommended for those who must go outside. Frequent cold baths are also advised.

Persistent Heatwave

Delhi has been enduring a relentless heatwave for nearly a month, with minimum temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures around 45 degrees. Residents are finding little relief, even from air-conditioners.

The weather forecast predicts continued heatwave conditions for the next 24 hours, with some relief expected thereafter.

Rajneesh Sareen of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) explained the phenomenon of rising nighttime temperatures. "Urban concretization in cities like Delhi has increased significantly. Concrete structures absorb heat during the day and release it at night, leading to higher minimum temperatures," said Sareen, who is the program director for CSE’s Sustainable Habitat Programme.

He noted that, historically, cooler nights provided some respite from daytime heat, but this is no longer the case. "The heat island effect is causing air-conditioners to fail. Increasing construction and reducing green spaces are disrupting wind patterns. The use of concrete needs to be minimized."