'Treat Heatstroke Patients on Priority': Centre to Hospitals After 9 Deaths In Delhi

New Delhi: As North India continues to reel under brutal heatwave, the Union Health Ministry has issued an advisory to central government-run hospitals to treat patients of heatstroke on priority. In a statement, the Ministry of Health said, "Union Health Minister JP Nadda reviewed the heatwave situation and preparedness of the central govt hospitals, today. He has directed the officials to ensure that all hospitals are prepared to provide the best healthcare to the affected. He has also directed for special heatwave units to be started in the central govt hospitals".

9 Deaths In Delhi Due to Heatwave

If reports are to be believed, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in Delhi has admitted 45 patients with heat-related issues since May 27. The hospital recorded nine deaths since May 27, with seven occurring in just the last two days. Similar surges in admissions due to heatstroke are also being observed in other hospitals across the national capital.

“We are currently receiving between eight to 10 patients daily, with some requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission due to the severity of their condition. Just yesterday, we admitted two more patients, adding to the four who were already in the ICU,” Dr Ritu Saxena, deputy medical superintendent of LNJP Hospital stated.   

Delhi Reels Under Brutal Heatwave

Delhi is currently experiencing severe heatwave conditions, with temperatures reaching 45 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, surpassing the seasonal average by 6.4 degrees.  

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Delhi. The IMD uses four colour codes for weather warnings -- green (no action needed), yellow (watch and stay updated), orange (be prepared) and red (take action). According to the IMD's seven-day forecast, the national capital will experience slight relief starting Wednesday.

The city is expected to be on yellow alert on Wednesday and Thursday while it will be put on green alert on Friday and Saturday. After Wednesday, a fresh western disturbance will approach northwest India, also affecting the national capital and bringing relief, according to the weather office.