Health authorities and the local administration in Rawalpindi have issued a heat alert as temperatures continue to climb, overwhelming hospitals with a steady influx of patients suffering from heat-related illnesses.
Allied hospitals in the city are treating 2,500 to 3,000 patients daily, both adults and children, with symptoms such as diarrhoea, eye irritation, skin issues, nosebleeds, respiratory problems, headaches, vomiting, and sunstroke. Local clinics are also facing a similar rush.
Deputy Medical Superintendent of Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Dr. Inayat, and Senior Medical Officer at Holy Family Hospital, Dr. Jameel, have advised people to stay indoors during peak heat hours unless absolutely necessary.
They recommend wearing dark green sunglasses and masks, keeping the head covered, carrying cold water, and using wet towels or handkerchiefs to stay cool.
They also warned against eating street food, including ice cream, shaved ice, fried snacks, and spicy items like gol gappay.
Drinking water immediately after eating watermelon should be avoided. Instead, people are encouraged to drink lemon water frequently, have green tea once a day, and stay away from oily or fried food.
Glucose and raw vegetables like radish, carrots, and cucumbers are recommended for staying hydrated.
Anyone experiencing sunstroke or nosebleeds should seek immediate medical help.
In response to the heat, the education department has relaxed school dress codes, allowing students to wear lighter and more comfortable clothes.
Schools, both public and private, have been directed to ensure clean drinking water and that fans are working properly in classrooms.
Due to the extreme weather, there’s a possibility that summer vacations will start a week earlier, beginning May 26. An official announcement on this is expected by early next week. In the meantime, a noticeable decline in school attendance has been reported.