Pune: Around 155 people have been admitted to hospitals across the State due to the heatwave between March 1 and May 5. However, there has been only one death this year due to the heatwave, in Amravati.
Last year, around 13 deaths were recorded in the State due to rising heat. Health Department officials attributed this decrease to more awareness about heat strokes and preventive measure.
As per the Health Department’s data, seven people died in Maharashtra last year in March while six people died in April and May. The number of cases of heatwave patients reported was 313 between March 1 and June 30 last year.
The data so far shows a steep decrease as compared to last year. So far, 155 cases of heat-related illnesses have been reported. Of these, 36 cases are from Akola circle and 12 from Latur circle. Six cases are from Nashik region and 99 cases have been reported in Nagpur circle. Within these circles, adjoining districts are included. Vidarbha and Marathwada regions have recorded hotter days this year.
Speaking to Sakal Times, Dr Jitendra Dolare, State Epidemic Officer, said there is more awareness among doctors and care givers at State-run hospitals. “We arranged workshops where we trained trainers in identifying and reporting these cases. We also shared preventive measures to ensure these cases are less and number of deaths is reduced,” said Dolare.
Earlier, the State Health Department had also secured two beds in Primary Health Care (PHC) centres and government hospital across the State for the heat related illnesses.
Dr Dolare said guidelines were also given to general public to create awareness about homemade remedies that can prevent heat-related illnesses.
“High risk patients with low immunity and children should be identified. Pregnant women should also take extra precaution. Labourers, who work in the sun, should have frequent water intake. White clothes should be used to
protect the head in sunlight. In case of uneasiness, patients should visit a doctor immediately,” said Dolare.
Comparison with previous year
Year Heat-related illnesses Deaths
2017 (March 1 to June 30) 313 13
2018 (March 1 to May 5) 155 1
