Health Ministry holds meeting with States on Heatwave Preparedness

Union Health Ministry, under the chairmanship of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) Dr. Atul Goel, conducted a virtual meeting with States/UTs to evaluate the preparedness of heatwave conditions and fire & electrical safety measures adopted by various health care facilities across India.

As per IMD-issued long-range outlook forecast on 27th May, 2024, it is forecasted that in June 2024, above-normal monthly maximum temperatures are likely over most part of the country, with the exception of parts of the southern peninsular India, where normal to below-normal temperatures are most likely.

The following directives have been sent to the health departments of different states:

• Advisory for State Health Departments
• Guidelines on Strengthening Health Systems Preparedness for Heat-Related Illnesses (HRI)
• Public Health Advisory with Do’s and Don’ts and IEC poster templates.
• Guidelines on Emergency Cooling for Severe Heat-Related Illnesses.
• Guidelines on Autopsy Findings in Heat Related Deaths were disseminated to all AIIMS & Medical Colleges across the country
• Joint communication from Secretary (Health), MoHFW and NDMA and a communication from Directorate General of Health Services on health facility fire safety measures.
• Checklist for assessment of Health Facility and Ambulance Preparedness to prevent and manage health impacts of heat.

Above normal heat wave days are likely over most areas of Northwest India and adjoining parts of Central India during June, 2024.

The situation is being monitored stringently by the highest-level officials of all States and UTs.