New Delhi, May 18: The Centre has issued a comprehensive Public Health Advisory on Extreme Heat in response to rising temperatures and prevailing heatwave conditions across several parts of the country. Released by the Ayush vertical under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the advisory emphasizes adequate hydration, sun protection, and traditional wellness practices to safeguard citizens against heat stress.

The advisory provides detailed guidance for the general public, vulnerable groups, employers, workers, and participants in mass gatherings and sports events. Key recommendations include drinking sufficient fluids, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, wearing light cotton clothing, and consuming seasonal fruits and electrolyte‑rich beverages.

Highlighting vulnerable populations, the advisory stresses special care for infants, children, pregnant women, the elderly, outdoor workers, and individuals with chronic illnesses such as heart disease and hypertension. Workplaces and public gatherings have been advised to provide shaded rest areas, ensure regular hydration breaks, and raise awareness about symptoms of heat stress.

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Citizens are cautioned to remain alert for signs of heat‑related illnesses, including dizziness, headache, nausea, altered mental status, dehydration, seizures, and fainting. Heatstroke has been identified as a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention, with the advisory urging prompt calls to emergency helplines 108 and 102 in severe cases.

In a notable addition, the advisory incorporates traditional wellness measures from Ayurveda, Siddha, Yoga, Unani, and Homoeopathy. Ayurveda recommends cooling dietary practices and hydrating beverages such as buttermilk, coconut water, lemon drinks, and traditional preparations like Nimbukaphala Panaka, Amra Prapanaka, and Chincha Panaka. Siddha and Yoga sections advise cooling refreshments and breathing techniques such as Sheetali Pranayama, along with gentle yoga practices to reduce heat stress. The Unani system suggests herbal cooling drinks and applications to prevent sunburn and dehydration, while Homoeopathy emphasizes precautionary measures during peak heat hours.

By blending modern health guidelines with traditional practices, the Centre’s advisory aims to provide holistic protection against extreme heat conditions, ensuring public safety during the ongoing heatwave.