Heat Wave in Pune : PMC establishes ICU ward to treat heat stroke patients at Kamla Nehru hospital
Pune: Pune Municipal Corporation has taken measures to prepare for the rising temperatures that could have an impact on people’s health. With cases of heatstroke already being reported in other parts of the country, the PMC has taken steps to ensure that they are ready to provide medical assistance to anyone affected by the heat. Areas in Pune like Shivaji Nagar, Wadgaon Sheri, Koregaon Park are recording temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius.Â
According to Suryakant Devkar, the PMC’s assistant health officer and in-charge of surveillance, no cases of heatstroke have been reported in Pune city so far. However, PMC is taking precautions to be prepared if cases of heat stroke are reported.
Devkar said, “There are beds at Kamala Nehru hospital that we have made the administration alert to in case patients are reported. The hospital is keeping itself prepared to treat heat stroke patients. A heat stroke patient needs a cold room equipped with air conditioning.”
Dr Avinash Bhondwe, a senior medical professional from Pune, suggested that the administration should focus more on creating awareness among citizens to prevent cases of heatstroke.
He said, “Rather than increasing or having beds prepared in hospitals, the administration must be prepared to create awareness amongst citizens. Citizens should be informed about the reasons and precautions that must be taken to avoid getting heatstroke.”Â
Dr Bhondwe also stressed the importance of staying hydrated during hot weather. He said, “As from the last 5-6 years, the number of heatstroke patients has increased drastically. People should take care of themselves by drinking at least 3 litres of water daily and other necessary health drinks to keep the body temperature under control. Kids must avoid playing in the afternoon and people who have to travel for work during the afternoon must stay hydrated.”
