Union Health Minister Chairs Meeting to Review Public Health Preparedness for Heatwaves

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya chaired a high-level conference to examine public health readiness for the existing heatwave conditions in different areas of the country. The minister declared that a team of specialists from the Union Health Ministry, ICMR, IMD, and NDMA will be sent to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar to support the state governments in executing public health response measures for heat-related disorders.

 

Mandaviya stressed the significance of timely preparedness, awareness, and early steps, directing ICMR to pursue research on limiting the consequences of heat waves on health.

 

The group examined the situation of heatwaves in different states and the preparedness of central agencies in terms of supply and hospital facilities. The Ministry of Health provided daily surveillance of heat-related disorders through the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH) utilizing the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP).

 

The minister underlined the significance of sensitizing medical officers, health personnel, and grassroots-level workers on early recognition and management of heat-related disorders. He asked states and central agencies to improve public awareness through multimedia efforts.

 

During the meeting, the minister requested the IMD to issue easily interpretable daily weather forecasts. Dr. V K Paul, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, and experts from IMD were also present.

 

Meanwhile, the scorching heat has taken its toll, with two deaths reported in Bihar's Gaya district, and the Patna District Magistrate suspending academic activities up to Class 12 until June 24 due to the ongoing heatwave.

 

The central government's proactive measures ahead of the summer season, including a review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the issuance of a heatwave advisory by the Union Health Ministry, have aimed to address heat-related illnesses.

 

The focus remains on ensuring timely healthcare services and creating awareness among the public regarding preventive measures. The review meeting stressed the significance of collaboration between central agencies and state governments to effectively combat the challenges posed by heat waves.

 

 

For more updates keep visiting our website www.topstoriesworld.com   where we provide unbiased, true and top stories of the world.