T’puram: Amid the severe heatwave in the state, the health department has urged people to take utmost care. In an advisory issued on Saturday, the health department said that self-protection is very important to avoid physical discomfort due to rising temperatures. “Everyone should avoid direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm. Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with serious illnesses should be especially careful,” it said. The advisory added that those working in direct sunlight should adjust their work hours to mornings and evenings. “Since there is a risk of dehydration due to excessive water loss from the body, drink plenty of water even if you are not thirsty,” said the statement. Dehydration, sunstroke and heatstroke can occur not only from direct sunlight exposure but also indoors, especially for children, the elderly and the sick, said the statement. “Therefore, it is advised to drink fluids like salted rice water, buttermilk and lemon water to ensure hydration,” the advisory stated, adding that use of sugary and carbonated drinks must be limited as they can cause dehydration. People have also been urged to keep an eye for symptoms like burns, fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting, excessive sweating, intense thirst, reduced urine output, dark urine, rapid heartbeat and unconsciousness to avoid the risk of heatstroke or sunburn.
