Dakshina Kannada health authorities have added extra hospital beds and prepared emergency measures as rising heat and humidity increase seasonal illnesses
Mangaluru
The Dakshina Kannada health authorities have arranged additional hospital beds across government facilities as rising temperatures and high humidity continue to affect residents in the coastal region.
According to officials, the decision comes amid persistent heatwave conditions and weather alerts issued by the meteorological department, including orange and yellow warnings. The measures aim to prepare the healthcare system for a potential increase in heat-related illnesses during peak summer conditions.
Beds have been earmarked in the district hospital, taluk hospitals, and community health centres. Health officials said five beds each have been reserved in taluk hospitals, while two beds each have been set aside in community health centres specifically for treating heat-related cases.
Doctors report an increase in patients visiting primary health centres with symptoms linked to extreme heat, including excessive sweating, skin irritation, rashes, and itching. Some cases resembling scabies-like discomfort have also been observed, with a small but steady daily number of patients seeking treatment.
The district health administration has instructed all hospitals, including private institutions, to report heat-related cases such as heat exhaustion or suspected heat stroke through official reporting systems. This is intended to ensure real-time monitoring and response coordination.
Officials have also set up ORS (oral rehydration solution) distribution points in hospitals to address dehydration-related risks. Usage of ORS packets has increased in recent days, and local procurement has been allowed to prevent shortages.
The health department recently held a preparedness meeting with senior officials and instructed immediate referral of severe cases to higher medical centres. Authorities said that while no confirmed heat stroke cases have been reported so far, preventive measures are being strengthened as temperatures remain high.