Srinagar, Aug 6: With no respite in scorching heat wave and prolonged dry spell, health experts have advised people to take extra precautions to avoid outbreak of diseases, especially in view of Ramadan when the immune system is a bit frail.
 The Meteorological department however predicted that dry spell would end soon and Valley would get a respite.  
 The health experts at Government Medical College Srinagar reminded people the best defence against heat-related illnesses was prevention. “Heat exhaustion, if left untreated, can lead to acute dehydration and heat stroke, which can result in severe illness and even death. To avoid that people should increase fluid intake, regardless of the activity level,” they advised.
 They said when fasting month is underway the extra care is needed. “In view of Ramadan those fasting should essentially consume two to four litres of water during the Sehri and Iftar.”
 Experts at Community Medicine Centre, GMC Srinagar said people should prefer washed and peeled fruits but avoid left-over food to prevent the diseases like Gastroenteritis.
 “Several cases of gastroenteritis were reported from various districts. Out Patient  Department (OPD) at SMHS is witnessing a heavy rush of patients suffering from food and water borne diseases. So essential caution is needed to avoid the outbreak,” the experts said.  About common symptoms they said when the body temperature continues persistently above the normal level of 37 deg C (98.6 deg F) it may lead to severe dehydration. “It may be an indication to infection, so it is most likely to result from a viral illness such as flu, or throat, chest, or urinary infection,” Head of the Department Community Medicine Dr Bilqees said. 
 As the hot conditions have become ‘unbearable’ for people, MeT department predicted breather in coming days. “The hot weather conditions are due to high level of moisture in the atmosphere and week monsoon currents prevailing in the state. However, parameters are favourable for bringing down the temperature”, Director MeT Department Srinagar Sonam Lotus informed.
 He said the ‘uncomfortable hot conditions’ would see a respite due to light thunder showers expected on August 8 and 9.

Lastupdate on : Sat, 6 Aug 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sat, 6 Aug 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sun, 7 Aug 2011 00:00:00 IST