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Sagar Watch News: In view of the possibility of a severe cold wave in Madhya Pradesh, the Health Department has issued comprehensive directions to all government and private medical colleges, Chief Medical and Health Officers (CMHOs), and Civil Surgeons-cum-Chief Hospital Superintendents across the state.
The instructions have been issued in line with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) public health advisory.
Key Points
Cold wave conditions are most likely during December and January, with minimum temperatures in some regions dropping to 5–7°C.
High-risk groups include senior citizens above 65 years, children below 5 years, people suffering from chronic heart or respiratory diseases, homeless persons, construction and outdoor workers, street vendors, and people living on roads.
Hospitals and health institutions have been asked to remain fully prepared to manage hypothermia and frostbite cases, which can turn fatal if ignored.
Sagar Watch Explainer -What is a Cold Wave?
A cold wave is a weather condition in which air temperature near the ground suddenly drops to extremely low levels. It is often accompanied by strong winds and can lead to frost or ice formation, increasing the risk of health emergencies.
Hypothermia: A Medical Emergency
Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature falls dangerously low due to prolonged exposure to cold. It is a serious emergency condition.
Common symptoms include:
Shivering, slurred speech, confusion
Extreme weakness, sleepiness, unconsciousness
Slow pulse and breathing in severe cases
Immediate First Aid Measures:
Shift the person to a warm and sheltered place.
Remove wet clothes and wrap the person in dry blankets or warm clothing.
Provide warm drinks, but never alcohol. Do not give fluids to an unconscious person.
Keep the head, neck, and body well covered.
Rush the patient to the nearest hospital without delay.
Frostbite: Warning Signs
Long exposure to cold can cause frostbite, especially on exposed body parts such as fingers, toes, nose, and ears.
Symptoms include:
Pale, numb, or hardened skin
Black or dark blisters on affected areas
Immediate medical attention is essential in such cases.
Do’s and Don’ts During Cold Wave
Do’s
Follow weather updates through radio, TV, and newspapers.
Cover head, neck, hands, and feet properly; use caps, mufflers, and waterproof shoes.
Consume a balanced diet, including vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables.
Drink warm and liquid beverages regularly.
Take special care of elderly persons, children, and neighbours living alone.
Store essential supplies and drinking water in advance.
Don’ts
Avoid unnecessary travel during extreme cold.
Do not stay exposed to cold winds for long durations.
Do not ignore symptoms like severe shivering, numbness, or breathing difficulty.
Awareness and Preparedness Measures
The Health Department has been directed to promote public awareness through Do’s and Don’ts advisories.
Continuous monitoring of weather forecasts has been advised.
Students and teachers are encouraged to download the NDMA’s mobile application “First Aid for Students & Teachers (FAST)”, which provides simple guidance on emergency first aid, including hypothermia management.
The Health Department has emphasised that timely precautions, awareness, and quick medical response can significantly reduce cold wave-related injuries and fatalities in the state.
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