Staff Reporter :

 

THE Commissioner of Public Health and Medical Education,Tarun Rathi, has issued an advisory to ensure that all medical college deans, Chief Medical and Health Officers, and Civil Surgeons cum Hospital Superintendents make field staff and citizens aware of the symp toms, preventive measures, and necessary preparations for the ongoing cold wave. During December and January, cold wave conditions are commonly observed across Madhya Pradesh. In several regions, minimum temperatures have fallen to 3-4°C, while in Bhopal and nearby areas, temperatures mostly range between 5-7°C, occasionally dropping to 4°C.

 

These extreme conditions pose health risks including hypothermia, frostbite, and, in severe cas es, fatalities, especially among senior citizens above 65 years, children under five, individuals with heart or respiratory illnesses, the homeless, outdoor and construction workers, roadside dwellers, and small traders. What is cold wave? A cold wave is a weather phenomenon marked by sudden drops in minimum temperature accompanied by cold winds, frost, or ice formation. Citizens are advised to stay updated with weather forecasts, wear warm clothing in multiple layers, cover head, neck, hands, and feet using caps, mufflers, and socks, and use water proof footwear. Warm fluids such as tea or soup and a balanced diet rich in vitamin C from fruits and vegetables are recommended.

 

Exposure to cold winds should be minimised, and unnecessary travel avoided. Special attention should be paid to children, elderly, solitary, and vulnerable individuals, while essential medicines, fuel, drinking water, and other supplies should be stocked in advance. Anyone affected by extreme cold should seek immediate medical attention and contact the nearest hospital. Signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite: People are cautioned not to remain in wet clothes, avoid alcohol for those suffering from hypothermia, and never ignore severe cold-related symptoms.

 

Common signs of hypothermia include shivering, extreme fatigue, confusion, difficulty speaking, or drowsiness, while frostbite can cause numbness or whitening/yellowing of fingers, toes, ears, or nose. Infants may show cold, red skin and low energy. Hypothermia is a medical emergency, and affected individuals should be moved to a warm place, covered with dry blankets, and taken to the nearest hospital immediately.