Rising temperatures pose health concerns in DK

Team Udayavani, Feb 26, 2024, 4:04 PM IST

Temperatures have been steadily increasing over the past few weeks, with cold and foggy mornings giving way to oppressive, sweltering heat in the afternoon, impacting public health.

As a result of the adverse weather conditions, reports of cough, fever, sore throat, and headaches among the public have surged. The coastal areas are also experiencing unusual warmth towards the end of winter, with maximum temperatures reaching as high as 35.3 degrees Celsius in the city recently, a departure from the norm for this time of year. Weather experts from the Meteorological Department predict that this pattern is likely to persist over the coming days.

Such elevated temperatures in February are uncommon for the district, with temperatures remaining higher than usual for several days. While the mornings are relatively cool, the transition from winter to summer is characterized by dew in the air due to the temperature variance between the land and sea, potentially weakening immune systems and increasing susceptibility to illnesses such as colds, coughs, sore throats, and respiratory issues. Children, in particular, are more vulnerable to these conditions.

Notably, the district has observed mumps cases predominantly affecting children. While not fatal, this communicable ailment presents symptoms such as fever, headache, sore throat, and swelling near the ears, lasting for approximately five days.

In response to these health concerns exacerbated by changing climate patterns, the Health Department has initiated awareness programs under the Climate Control and Human Health National Program. Primary health centers have been directed to disseminate information and educate the public about precautionary measures to mitigate the impact of such weather fluctuations.

Dr. Thimmaiah, the D.K. District Health Officer, emphasized the importance of public awareness and proactive measures to address the health risks associated with climate variability.