DGHS issues health directives as heatwave grips Bangladesh

People with existing health conditions like hypertension or heart disease must take extra precautions

As Bangladesh continues to bake under a relentless heatwave, health authorities have raised alarms about the risks to public health and issued seven safety guidelines to help people cope.

The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has urged citizens to take extra precautions, especially vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, people with disabilities, outdoor workers, those with obesity, and people with existing health conditions like hypertension or heart disease.

The recommendations from the DGHS are:

1. Use an umbrella, cap, or hat when going outside during the day.

2. Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton clothing.

3. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids.

4. Take showers multiple times a day if possible.

5. Avoid spicy, oily, stale, or uncovered food.

6. Monitor your urine colour -- dark yellow could indicate dehydration and the need to drink more water.

7. Seek medical attention immediately if you feel unwell due to the heat.

Bangladesh has been gripped by a moderate heatwave since the end of Bengali month of Boishakh. On Saturday, Chuadanga recorded the highest temperature of the season at 42 degrees Celsius.

However, a spell of rain in some districts on Sunday evening brought some relief.