India issues heatwave public health advisory for summer season

India’s health authorities have issued a public health advisory for the summer season as heatwave conditions continue in parts of the country, urging people to take precautions against extreme heat.

The advisory, issued on May 18 by the Ayush Vertical under the Directorate General of Health Services, calls for simple protective steps including drinking enough water, staying in the shade, wearing loose cotton clothing and using electrolyte fluids. It also urges extra caution during the hottest part of the day.

Officials highlighted higher risk for infants, older adults, pregnant women, outdoor workers and people living with chronic illnesses.

The advisory follows a series of weather warnings from the India Meteorological Department in May. On May 1, the IMD said above-normal heatwave days were likely in parts of the foothills of the Himalayas, the east coast, Gujarat and Maharashtra during the month. On May 13, it warned that heatwave to severe heatwave conditions were likely over northwest, west and parts of central India for many days of the week.

The health guidance is aimed at reducing heat-related illness as the country moves deeper into the summer season. The NCDC also issued state health department guidance focused on preparedness, surveillance and response for heat-related illness.

The immediate outlook depends on how long the current spell of intense heat lasts and whether more states issue follow-up advisories in the coming days.