Pune Municipal Corporation Issues Advisory To Hospitals To Create An Action Plan Amid Cold Weather
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The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued an advisory to government and private hospitals in the city, directing them to prepare an action plan for the cold wave. The PMC health department issued the advisory last week, outlining preventive measures, disorders, symptoms, and treatment protocols for ward medical officers, zonal medical officers, and civic hospitals.
According to officials, a cold wave is considered when the minimum temperature drops to 10°C or less for plains and 0°C or less for hilly regions. On January 4, Pune recorded a temperature of 9.6°C, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The city had previously experienced single-digit temperatures for five consecutive days between December 15-19, 2024.
Health Risks Associated with Cold Waves
PMC stated that although Pune is unlikely to experience severe cold waves, the city must be prepared to handle the situation, especially during January and February when temperatures fluctuate frequently. Cold waves are considered a local disaster that often receives inadequate attention.
“Cold waves can increase morbidity and mortality, particularly among the elderly, neonates, and the homeless population,” explained PMC.
Another senior PMC official emphasized the importance of taking precautionary measures to prevent injuries and deaths due to extreme cold. “Exposure to intense cold can lead to hypothermia, frostbite, and other non-freezing peripheral cold injuries. Citizens should seek medical attention immediately and avoid self-medication,” the official advised.
The PMC has directed healthcare staff to initiate Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities to raise awareness about health issues related to cold waves. Private hospitals have also been instructed to follow the advisory and submit reports.
