The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued a set of health guidelines to mitigate the risk of heatstroke during the ongoing intense heatwave.
The instructions, issued in a press release on Tuesday (April 23), include the following:
- Seek shade and rest periodically to avoid prolonged exposure to intense heat.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of safe water. Refrain from consuming street food and beverages to prevent waterborne illnesses such as Hepatitis A, E, and diarrhea.
- Take multiple showers if necessary.
- Wear loose, light-colored clothing during hot weather conditions, and avoid dark-colored clothing if possible.
- If experiencing symptoms such as cessation of sweating, nausea, severe headache, high body temperature, reduced urination, burning sensation during urination, convulsions, or fainting in hot weather, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital and consult with a healthcare professional.
Prior to this, the police headquarters issued 11 guidelines to prevent heatstroke and maintain the health of police personnel. The guidelines include:
- Ensuring the use of umbrellas, caps, and sunglasses while on duty outdoors.
- Consuming adequate amounts of room temperature water slowly and avoiding cold water (with ice/refrigerated water).
- Opting for healthy food and avoiding consuming stale or open food.
- Ensuring the provision of clean water and nutritious meals in police messes and canteens.
- Waiting for half an hour or until the body temperature returns to normal before taking a shower upon returning home from outdoor activities.
- Avoiding juices or similar drinks.
Previously, a three-day heat alert was issued by the Bangladesh Meteorological Department on April 19, which was later extended until Wednesday.
