Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) have issued Heat wave warning for Central and adjoining North-west India, and healthcare workers has to be proactive and prepare for activities to prevent Heat related illness.

Maximum temperatures range between 34- 37 °C, markedly above normal (5.1°C or more), at a few places over West Rajasthan, West Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh

The report also predicted enhanced probability of occurrence of heatwave during March to May season over many regions of Central and adjoining Northwest India.  

A region has a heat wave if its ambient temperature deviates by at least 4.5-6.4°C from the long-term average. There is also a heat wave if the maximum temperature crosses 45°C (or 37°C at a hill-station) 

Extreme heat can lead to minor illnesses, such as heat rash (prickly heat), heat oedema, heat cramps, and tetany, as well as serious illnesses as heat syncope, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.   

Health education on heat-related illness must be speculated by healthcare workers – Guidelines for prevention and management of Heatwave by National Disaster Management Authority is available.