PESHAWAR
In view of increasing temperatures across the country, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) at the National Institute of Health has issued an advisory for the prevention and timely management of heat and sun strokes.
According to the advisory, Pakistan is currently experiencing severe climatic changes driven by global warming, resulting in an increase in heat-related illnesses and associated morbidity and mortality.
It said the World Health Organization (WHO) had also highlighted the adverse effects of climate change on human health, including more frequent and intense heatwaves.
The advisory noted that heat-related illnesses pose a significant public health challenge, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan, where healthcare systems, especially in rural and underserved areas, face difficulties in responding effectively to such emergencies.
Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, outdoor workers, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, are at greater risk.
Describing heat stroke as a medical emergency, the advisory explained that it is a severe form of hyperthermia in which the body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. It occurs when the body’s natural cooling mechanism fails, leading to a rapid rise in temperature and potential damage to vital organs.
It further stated that under normal conditions, the body regulates temperature through sweating and heat loss via the skin. However, prolonged exposure to high temperatures, humidity, strenuous physical activity under the sun, or dehydration can disrupt this process, leading to heat stroke.
The advisory outlined key symptoms including profuse sweating or absence of sweating, hot and dry or flushed skin, high fever, weakness, dizziness, throbbing headache, confusion, hallucinations, slurred speech, and lethargy. It warned that heat stroke can result in permanent disability or death if not treated promptly.
Health officials emphasized the need for immediate preventive measures and preparedness at all levels of the healthcare system to reduce heat-related risks and ensure timely treatment of affected individuals.
