12 June 2004	Saturday	23 Rabi-us-Saani 1425

KARACHI, June 11: The scorching and surging temperatures in the city turn necessary for Karachiites to take due care and protect themselves as well as the kids from sun-stroke and other heat-induced health conditions.

Health-care providers, talking to APP here on Friday, said simple preventive measures could ensure that public health is not compromised and people, particularly children, are protected against a serious scenario.

Reminding that sun-stroke is the most common condition people are generally vulnerable to during this very phase of season, Dr. Shaista, a general practitioner, advised that if necessary to be in open and out of home during noon and afternoon, people must see that their heads are properly covered and they must necessarily be attired in loose, light coloured, preferably cotton, clothes.

She was supplemented by Dr. Tariq who urged the masses to ensure maximum intake of liquid as fresh juices and plain water, adding that the latter could be the best option to avoid heat-related health conditions, particularly dehydration.

Dr Tariq said simple diet, with maximum intake of fresh vegetables, milk and curd, coupled with safe water, simple attire and proper care towards hygiene, could protect the masses from a wide range of ailments, such as hepatitis- A, diarrhoea, dysentery and so forth.

Dr. Khaliq, an ophthalmologist, suggested that people should use adequate eye gears as sun glasses to avoid intensity of heat as it often leads to itching and reddening of eyes.

Citing the simple techniques to contain the intensity of heat, doctors stressed that as children, and to a certain extent, women are more prone to be struck with heat, it would be appropriate that they must keep their heads covered or at least carry an umbrella while out in the sun.

Meanwhile, in case of heat stroke it was recommended that the affectees, who in most of instances do lose their consciousness and are also registered with high grade fever, if in open be immediately taken to a shade and they be sprinkled with water, particularly their head be washed with cold water and proper ventilation be ensured.

Paediatricians, associated with Civil Hospital, Karachi, told APP that while diarrhoeal cases are being reported in high numbers, it is nothing unusual as surge in such instances is annually witnessed during this season. However, parents have to be frequently reminded to see that clean and safe water is consumed.

They also urged that mothers must breast feed their babies as bottle-feeding enhances their chances of diarrhoeal episodes. About kids above two years of age, they maintained that properly sterilised feeders, feeding bottles and nipples be used and fresh milk be prepared for the child as, otherwise, it could be as hazardous as stale food. -APP