Dhaka: Health experts have strongly advised people to avoid taking children and elderly family members outdoors unless absolutely necessary during the ongoing heat wave. Extreme temperatures significantly increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses, prompting a call for heightened awareness and careful monitoring to protect these high-risk groups.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, experts emphasize that children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat as their bodies cannot regulate temperature effectively, making them prone to heatstroke and dehydration. Physicians recommend ensuring regular intake of water and fluids for children, rather than relying solely on their sense of thirst. Hydrating options such as coconut water, lemon-based drinks, and homemade fruit juices are especially beneficial in maintaining electrolyte balance.
They also advised avoiding direct exposure to sunlight, particularly between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm, when temperatures are usually at their peak. If going outside is unavoidable, individuals should use umbrellas or hats and wear loose-fitting, light-colored cotton clothing.
Dr. Md Abdul Kader, Associate Professor of the pediatrics department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), highlighted that children frequently suffer from heat-related conditions such as heatstroke, fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration during prolonged hot weather. He stressed the importance of parents and caregivers remaining alert to early warning signs, as children often cannot clearly communicate their discomfort.
Dr. Kader also advised maintaining a cool and comfortable indoor environment for both children and the elderly by using fans or air coolers where necessary but warned against prolonged exposure to direct cold air. Symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue, and excessive body heat may indicate approaching heatstroke and should prompt immediate medical consultation.
Regarding diet, Dr. Kader recommended increasing the intake of fluids, including water, coconut water, lemon drinks, and yogurt-based beverages such as lassi. Water-rich fruits like watermelon, melon, papaya, cucumber, and banana can help regulate body temperature and prevent dehydration. He added that easily digestible meals such as rice, lentils, vegetables, and fish prepared with mild spices are suitable for children, while yogurt can aid digestion and help keep the body refreshed.
Dr. Hasan Hafizur Rahman, Associate Professor of the DMCH medicine department, noted that the prevalence of diarrhea, jaundice, and other infections tends to rise during hot weather due to increased activity of viruses and bacteria. He cautioned against consuming food from outside, especially street food such as fuchka, chotpoti, and various sugary drinks, as they pose a high risk of contamination and can quickly lead to illness, particularly among children and the elderly.
Dr. Rahman advised prioritizing freshly prepared, hygienic, light, and nutritious meals at home, noting that food spoils rapidly in high temperatures. He emphasized the importance of maintaining proper hygiene, including regular handwashing, to prevent infections during this period.
Talking to BSS, Dhaka district Civil Surgeon Dr. Mohammad Zillur Rahman stated that health authorities have already issued directives to healthcare workers to provide necessary guidance to patients regarding heat-related precautions. He reiterated key recommendations, including drinking sufficient amounts of safe water, avoiding tea and coffee, minimizing exposure to direct sunlight, and using protective measures such as umbrellas, hats, or caps when going outdoors.
Public health expert and adviser to the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) Dr. Mohammad Mushtuq Husain underscored that keeping the body cool and preventing dehydration are the most effective ways to combat heat-related health risks. He advised people to increase fluid intake and avoid working near heat sources or under direct sunlight during peak hours.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department reported that a mild to moderate heatwave is sweeping over different parts of the country, including Tangail, Faridpur, Lakshmipur, Khulna, Jashore, and Kushtia, as well as the Rajshahi division, and is likely to persist. Day and night temperatures are expected to remain nearly unchanged across the country.