Bhubaneswar: Gearing up to effectively deal with heatwave conditions, the Odisha government has reinforced its strategies to protect public health amid rising temperatures.
Following the directive of Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling, a review meeting was chaired by Dr Nilakantha Mishra, Director of Public Health (DPH), to assess and streamline the operational and logistical measures required to safeguard the people during the heatwave.
Stressing the need for a comprehensive approach to managing the public health impact of extreme heat, Dr Mishra highlighted that the department is working to ensure the availability of essential medical supplies such as intravenous fluids, Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS), medicines, air coolers, and power backup systems to mitigate the effects of the heatwave.
Additionally, all 30 districts have been instructed to ensure the readiness of medical facilities, with sufficient beds prepared for heatwave-related cases, an official press release said.
The department has also expanded its training program for healthcare workers, with a focus on managing heat-related illnesses. Dr Mishra stressed that the training would not only involve healthcare professionals but also extend to grassroots-level teams in the districts, enabling local health workers to respond quickly and effectively to emerging heat-related health issues.
Special attention has been given to mining regions and areas prone to extreme heat, where vulnerable population will be provided with extra resources and protection. The department has prioritised ensuring these communities are well-equipped to cope with the severe weather conditions. Alongside this, there will be an intensified Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign across the state to raise awareness about the risks associated with heatwaves and provide the public with practical advice on preventing heat-related illnesses.
He further stressed the importance of learning from past experiences and ensuring that all preparedness strategies are implemented in a timely and effective manner.
“We are well-prepared to handle the challenges of the upcoming heatwave season. Through the collective efforts of healthcare professionals, district officials, and the public, we remain committed to providing timely medical assistance, raising awareness, and ensuring that all necessary infrastructure and resources are in place to minimize the impact of extreme heat,” Dr Mishra assured.
Dr. Basant Pradhan, Nodal Officer for Heat-Related Illnesses, Dr. Ashok Paikray, State Surveillance Officer, Dr. Sephali Mallik, Additional Director, Nursing, Dr. Pratibha Pradhan, Additional Director, DFW, along with the Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs) from all districts attended the meeting both in person and through virtual mode.
