Heatwave Precautions for infants and children; Know DOs and DON'Ts

Heatwave Precautions for infants and children: North India is facing a severe heatwave these days with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a red alert for the same. Extreme heat and humidity have the potential to pose serious health risks, especially for infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

Meanwhile, extreme heat can lead to severe heat stroke and even worse, fatality, if proper precautions are not taken. As a result of climate change, heat waves have become longer, more frequent, and even more severe.

What is a heat wave?

Heat waves are caused after the temperature gets higher than normal for several days in a row while humidity makes it feel much hotter.

What causes a heat wave?

Heat waves are caused by warm air which is trapped in the atmosphere and is also known as a natural weather phenomenon. These are high in intensity and frequency due to climate change that is resulting from greenhouse gas emissions that trap heat for longer.

Who’s most at risk from heat waves?

It is dangerous for everyone's health but infants, children, pregnant women and the elderly are much vulnerable to heat stress. Too much heat can be dangerous for babies and children than for adults while dehydration can be dangerous or even deadly.

Heatwave Precautions for infants and children: Here's What Should Be Done

DO check if your child is thirsty, sweating, feeling hot, vomiting, has a dry and sticky mouth, or experiencing headaches.
If your child is not responding properly and has a high fever or feeling dizzy or breathing fast, then take them to the health facility immediately.
DO ensure that your child is clothed loosely in order to prevent heat rashes and becoming too hot.
DO check that your child is well-hydrated. They may not know what dehydration and heat stress feel like.
Breastfeeding mothers should drink plenty of water as dehydration can affect breast milk production.
Children aged 6 months and over should drink water regularly throughout the day.

Heatwave Precautions for infants and children: Here's What Should Not Be Done

DO NOT give infants medication, if they have signs of being overheated without consulting a health provider.
DO NOT leave infants and children in closed spaces without ventilation, like cars or rooms with closed windows.
DO NOT let your children play outside for long hours when it is hot.
Have them rest every 30 minutes when exercising or playing outside.
Exercising or playing in high temperatures can lead to dehydration and serious consequences quickly.

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