In response to a severe cold wave and plummeting temperatures, the District Health Department in Punjab's Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar has issued a critical health advisory for residents. The advisory, released on Friday, outlines essential precautions to mitigate cold-related health risks, with specific warnings against dangerous heating practices and alcohol consumption.
Vulnerable Groups Urged to Take Extra Precautions
Dr Gurinderjeet Singh, the Civil Surgeon of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, emphasized that negligence during winter can lead to serious medical complications. He identified elderly people, young children, and patients with pre-existing heart conditions as particularly vulnerable to the harsh cold.
Dr Singh advised these groups to strictly avoid walking during the early morning and late evening hours, especially when cold and fog are intense. For children, who are more susceptible to pneumonia, vomiting, and diarrhoea in winter, he stressed the importance of adequate warm clothing that fully covers the body, including caps and socks.
Recognizing Symptoms and Dressing Right
The civil surgeon explained that a significant drop in body temperature can manifest through symptoms like shivering, drowsiness, muscle stiffness, and difficulty in breathing. He urged people not to ignore shivering, as it is one of the body's first signals of excessive heat loss.
Regarding clothing, Dr Singh recommended wearing multiple layers of light garments instead of a single heavy layer. He noted that tight or excessively heavy clothing can restrict blood circulation and ironically reduce the body's natural ability to retain warmth.
Critical Warnings: Fire Pots, Alcohol, and Diet
Health officials delivered stern warnings against two common but hazardous winter practices. First, they highlighted the extreme danger of burning fire pots or coal in closed, unventilated rooms. This practice produces carbon monoxide, which depletes oxygen levels and can be fatal.
Second, the department cautioned against alcohol consumption in cold weather. Contrary to popular belief, alcohol lowers the body's core temperature and significantly increases the risk of hypothermia.
District Epidemiologist, Dr Rakesh Pal, advised the public to maintain body temperature by consuming ample warm liquids like tea, milk, and soup. He also emphasized boosting immunity through a diet rich in vitamin C from fruits and vegetables.
The comprehensive advisory further recommends avoiding unnecessary outdoor movement, following a healthy diet, heeding Meteorological Department forecasts, and ensuring proper ventilation when using room heaters. The Health Department's final appeal urges citizens to remain vigilant, adopt these preventive measures, and seek immediate medical attention for any cold-related health issues.
