Health Experts Warn against Outdoor Exposure for Children, Elderly amid Heatwave

Health experts have issued a strong advisory urging citizens to restrict the outdoor movement of children and elderly family members unless absolutely necessary as a mild to moderate heatwave continues to sweep across Bangladesh. 

According to medical professionals, extreme temperatures significantly increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses, necessitating heightened awareness and careful monitoring to protect these particularly high-risk groups.

Experts explained that children and the elderly are more vulnerable to extreme heat because their bodies cannot regulate temperature effectively, making them highly prone to heatstroke. 

Physicians recommend that parents ensure children drink water and fluids regularly rather than relying on their sense of thirst. 

Beneficial hydrating options include coconut water, lemon-based drinks, and homemade fruit juices, which help maintain essential electrolyte balance. 

To minimize risk, people are advised to avoid direct sunlight between 11 am and 4 pm, when temperatures typically peak. 

If going outside is unavoidable, experts suggest using umbrellas or hats and wearing loose-fitting, light-colored cotton clothing.

Dr. Md Abdul Kader, Associate Professor of the Pediatrics Department at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), noted that “children frequently suffer from heat-related conditions such as heatstroke, fever, diarrhoea, vomiting and dehydration during prolonged hot weather.” 

He emphasized that because children often cannot clearly communicate their discomfort, caregivers must remain alert to early warning signs. 

He further advised maintaining a cool indoor environment using fans or air coolers while avoiding prolonged exposure to direct cold air. 

Dr. Kader warned that symptoms like dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue, and excessive body heat could indicate approaching heatstroke and should prompt immediate medical consultation. 

Regarding diet, he recommended water-rich fruits like watermelon, papaya, cucumber, and banana, alongside easily digestible meals such as rice, lentils, and fish prepared with mild spices. 

“Yoghurt can aid digestion and help keep the body refreshed,” he added.

Dr. Hasan Hafizur Rahman, Associate Professor of the DMCH Medicine Department, highlighted that the prevalence of diarrhoea, jaundice and other infections tends to rise in hot weather due to increased bacterial and viral activity. 

He warned that consuming street food, such as fuchka or sugary drinks, poses a high risk of contamination. 

“Food spoils rapidly in high temperatures,” Dr. Rahman noted, advising the public to prioritize freshly prepared, hygienic, and light meals at home while maintaining proper handwashing habits.

Dhaka District Civil Surgeon Dr. Mohammad Zillur Rahman informed BSS that health authorities have already issued directives to healthcare workers to provide guidance on heat-related precautions. 

He reiterated the importance of drinking safe water, avoiding tea and coffee, and using protective gear like caps or umbrellas. 

Public health expert and IEDCR adviser Dr. Mohammad Mushtuq Husain underscored that “keeping the body cool and preventing dehydration are the most effective ways to combat heat-related health risks.” 

He advised avoiding labor near heat sources or under direct sunlight during peak hours.

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department reported that the heatwave is currently affecting various regions, including Tangail, Faridpur, Lakshmipur, Khulna, Jashore, Kushtia, and the Rajshahi division.

The department expects these conditions to persist, with day and night temperatures remaining largely unchanged across the country.