Jharkhand Heatwave: Hospitals Brace for Surge in Heat-Related Illnesses

Ranchi: With temperatures continuing to soar across the state, govt hospitals are reporting more patients suffering from dehydration, exhaustion and high fever, prompting the health authorities to strengthen preparedness measures in several districts.

In Ranchi, doctors said the prolonged spell of high temperatures has led to rise in heat-related cases in outpatient departments, particularly among children, elderly and workers. Ranchi civil surgeon Prabhat Kumar said the Sadar hospital has been witnessing a steady inflow of such cases. “At the Sadar hospital, around 15 to 20 patients are coming every day with heat-related ailments. Most cases involve dehydration, weakness and high fever. People must avoid stepping out during peak afternoon heat and keep themselves hydrated,” he said.

Authorities of Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (Rims) in the city have also increased readiness. Rims public relations officer Shishir Kumar said the medicine and paediatrics departments have been asked to remain prepared to handle heatstroke cases.

“Heatstroke patients are generally admitted in medicine or paediatrics wards depending on symptoms. If the number of patients increases further, dedicated beds can also be arranged as an alternative. People should avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight, drink sufficient water and take precautions, especially children and senior citizens,” he said.

Daltonganj in Palamu recorded a scorching 44.8 degrees Celsius on Saturday, about 4 degrees above normal, placing the district close to the heatwave threshold of 4.5 degrees and above. At Medinirai Medical College and Hospital in Daltonganj, medical superintendent Ajay Kumar said they received more than 13 heat-related cases this week, including three on Sunday. “Most patients are reporting dehydration and heat exhaustion symptoms. We are monitoring the situation closely,” he said.

Palamu civil surgeon Anil Srivastava said preparedness has been ensured across health facilities in the district.

“Separate beds have been reserved for heat-related ailments in all 22 primary health centres and 8 community health centres. Emergency beds are also on standby, with ORS packets, electrolyte solutions, drinking water and essential summer medicines in stock,” he said.

Palamu DC Dilip Pratap Singh Shekhawat said arrangements are being aligned with the heat surge. “Residents are advised to remain indoors during peak heat hours, especially kids and elderly citizens. Public shelters and water distribution facilities are being planned, while hospitals have been equipped with essentials including beds, electrolyte powders and other support systems,” he said.