With a possible cold wave expected between December and January, the government stated that the temperatures may fall by 5 to 7 degrees Celsius. As a precaution, the health department asked all government and private hospitals and medical colleges to remain ready to handle cold-related medical emergencies.
On Wednesday, Bhopal witnessed a day temperature of 26.6°C, while the night temperature plunged to 5.1°C, a difference of more than 21 degrees. According to the doctors, the huge gap in the temperatures can increase the health risks to the public.
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Dr R.K. Badve, retired surgeon at JP Hospital, told Bhaskar, "Such a large difference in both temperatures is concerning for health. Skin infections can also increase due to sun exposure during the day and cold air at night."
The Health Department, following public health advisories from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), has issued detailed guidelines to Deans of medical colleges, Chief Medical and Health Officers (CMHOs), and Civil Surgeons.
Officials have warned that during a cold wave, conditions such as hypothermia and frostbite can be fatal. Along with medical treatment, the department has also stressed public awareness and special care for vulnerable groups.
Hospitals have been directed to keep emergency services active, ensure the availability of blankets, essential medicines, and equipment, and respond quickly to cold-related cases.
The department stated that elderly people over 65, children under 5, heart and respiratory patients, and the homeless are at higher risk. They have warned that hypothermia and frostbite can be dangerous if ignored. They stated that hypothermia should be considered a medical emergency, and the patient should be taken to the hospital as soon as symptoms appear.
If signs of frostbite, such as numbness, paleness, or black blisters appear, the government asks the patient to seek immediate medical advice. The department has also asked to avoid cold air, not travel unnecessarily, eat a balanced diet, consume vitamin C-rich foods, and drink warm liquids to stay protected during the winter season.
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