From March 1 to May 26, state records 270 heatstroke cases & 17 deaths

Pune: The state health department has reported 270 heatstroke cases and 17 deaths across Maharashtra between March 1 and May 26 this year, with Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar emerging as the worst-affected district, recording 50 cases and two fatalities.

According to official data, of the 17 total deaths, 12 have been classified as suspected, while five have been confirmed.

District-wise figures showed that Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar reported the highest number of cases (50), followed by Nandurbar (26), Nashik (20) and Gadchiroli (19). Wardha and Buldhana recorded 18 cases each. Among the 12 suspected deaths, two each were reported from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Akola, Latur and Jalgaon, while Yavatmal, Solapur, Nagpur and Gadchiroli reported one case each. Of the five confirmed deaths, two were reported in Akola, and one each in Latur, Gadchiroli and Jalgaon.

Dr Sandeep Sangale, joint director, health services, Maharashtra, said, “In case of heatstroke, the central health ministry’s advisory recommends immediate first aid measures, including moving the person to an open and well-ventilated place, removing unnecessary clothing and trying to bring the body temperature below 101°F. Use a fan while wetting the person’s skin with water using a sponge or towel. The advisory warns against applying ice packs or immersing a newborn or baby in water, as it may cause hypothermia.”

Extreme heat can affect the body in multiple ways, ranging from dehydration and exhaustion to severe heatstroke, which can be life-threatening. “During the peak heat period, there is a noticeable increase in patients reporting dizziness, weakness, headaches and low blood pressure. With the recent weather change, these cases are now declining. The recent rain spell and resultant drop in temperatures have reduced stress on the body, especially among the elderly, children and outdoor workers,” Dr Mahendra Dadke, consultant in internal medicine at Jupiter Hospital, said.

Doctors said though the recent spell of rainfall and the drop in temperatures provided much-needed relief from heat, sudden weather changes could bring their own set of health challenges. Dr Aparna Kodre, senior consultant in the medicine department at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre, highlighted an increase in airborne infections. “The sudden weather fluctuations have resulted in more cases of flu, pharyngitis, enteritis, as well as flare-ups of asthma and COPD. If fever persists for more than 48 hours, patients should consult a doctor. Post-rain humidity can also lead to fatigue and discomfort, making it important to stay adequately hydrated,” she said.

Health experts emphasised that simple precautions like maintaining proper hydration, avoiding contaminated food and drinks, and following basic hygiene practices could help prevent both heat-related illnesses and infections during this transitional period.