Onlykashmir.in News Desk
The Department of Community Medicine at Government Medical College Srinagar has issued a public health advisory urging residents to take precautions against heat related illnesses and food borne infections as summer temperatures continue to climb across the Kashmir valley.
Dr. Mohammad Saleem Khan, head of the Department of Community Medicine at GMC Srinagar, said rising temperatures are sharply increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and infections linked to contaminated food and water. He explained that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can trigger serious health complications if not addressed promptly.
According to the advisory, heat exhaustion typically presents with heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness and nausea, while dehydration may cause excessive thirst, a dry mouth, dark colored urine and reduced urine output. Heat stroke, the most severe of these conditions, requires immediate medical attention and is marked by a body temperature above 40 degrees Celsius, confusion, a rapid pulse, unconsciousness and collapse.
The advisory also flagged a heightened risk of food borne diseases during the hot months, since bacteria multiply far more quickly in improperly stored food during periods of intense heat. Residents have been advised to avoid uncovered street food, cut fruit sold in the open, stale cooked rice, meat and chicken left unrefrigerated for extended periods, unpasteurized milk, cream pastries and improperly stored ice cream or juices made with contaminated water. Anyone experiencing persistent vomiting, bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, high fever or signs of severe dehydration has been urged to seek immediate medical care.
To reduce risk, the department recommends drinking adequate water, eating freshly prepared meals, maintaining proper hand hygiene, refrigerating leftovers promptly and using oral rehydration solution at the first sign of diarrhea. It also advises limiting sugary drinks, alcohol, tea and coffee during periods of extreme heat. Special precautions have been recommended for children, elderly people, pregnant women, individuals with chronic illnesses and outdoor workers, including avoiding direct sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., wearing loose cotton clothing, staying in shaded and well ventilated spaces, and never leaving children or elderly persons inside parked vehicles.
“A healthy Kashmir begins with safe choices. Stay cool, stay hydrated, eat safe and protect yourself as well as your loved ones,” Dr. Khan said, calling on families across the valley to adopt these measures as summer temperatures continue to rise in the weeks ahead.
