The summer arrived in the city just over a week ago, but the heat is already becoming unbearable. According to doctors, people need to be very careful as cases of cough-cold and the seasonal flu are likely to shoot up along with the temperature. Many people may be attacked by more serious diseases, such as dehydration, gastroenteritis and jaundice.
Even the meteorological department has warned people. “If you already find March unbearably hot, what will you do in May?” asked Dr RV Sharma, deputy director general, Regional Meteorological Centre, Colaba.
On Monday, the maximum daytime temperature recorded at Colaba was 32°C, while the minimum was 23°C. At Santa Cruz, the maximum temperature was 33°C, while minimum was 22°C. “While it is difficult to predict day-to-day temperatures, March-end and mid-April will be definitely very hot,” warned Sharma.
Doctors, however, are already urging people to spend minimum time under the sun and to use sun-protection when they venture out.
“A lot of people feel under the weather when the season changes,” said Dr SN Acharya, a Kurla-based general practitioner. “I’ve already begun seeing patients, especially children, complaining of dehydration.”
Mulund-based general practitioner Dr Ashok Rane said that viral fever was already on the rise due to the sudden climatic changes. “Climate changes often trigger off viral infections,” he said.
“Mumbai’s humid conditions help the viruses thrive all through the year.”
Another common problem in summer is a heat rash or prickly heat. “The problem is particularly acute among babies and children,” said paediatrician Dr S Venkat.
Dr Harsha Megde, a dermatologist, suggests that people should avoid direct sunlight. “Stay out of the sun if your shadow is shorter than you are, ie between 10am to 2pm. Always wear a cap or hat. Use sunscreen or sunblock (minimum SPF 15),” she said
“People should avoid eating food from outside and also dress according to the climate,” added Dr Nilesh Mehta, a physician.
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