NIH issues heat stroke advisory amid rising heatwave risk

ISLAMABAD: The Centre for Disease Control at the National Institutes of Health has issued an advisory urging relevant healthcare authorities to strengthen preparedness for the prevention and control of heat and sunstroke.

According to the advisory, Pakistan has in recent years been facing severe climatic changes linked to global warming, including heatwaves. It said the country is seeing growing vulnerability to such weather conditions each year, with the impact increasing and carrying the risk of higher illness and death related to heat stroke.

The advisory called for immediate steps to address the situation. It said avoiding direct exposure to sunlight and maintaining rehydration can help prevent complications caused by heatstroke.

The NIH also advised that the public should be encouraged to eat salty foods and wear hats along with light-coloured, lightweight and loose clothing during hot and humid conditions.