Health experts warn of heat risks, share tips to protect children

Medical experts have called on parents and caregivers to take urgent precautions to shield children from heat-related illnesses amid above-normal temperatures across Pakistan. Many areas are experiencing extended spells of intense heat, prompting health authorities to warn that conditions could persist in the coming days, increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, especially among young children. “Children are particularly vulnerable during heatwaves because their bodies warm up more quickly than adults and are less effective at regulating temperature. This makes them more prone to rapid fluid loss and serious heat-related health problems,” said Dr Irfan Habib, Medical Director of ChildLife Foundation. He advised families to ensure that children stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) when necessary. Parents should also limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, particularly between 11 am and 4 pm, dress children in loose, light-coloured cotton clothing, and use fans, shade, and cool damp cloths to help maintain a safe body temperature, especially in homes without air conditioning. Dr Irfan further recommended serving light meals and water-rich fruits such as cucumbers, melons, and mangoes, while stressing that children should never be left unattended inside parked vehicles. He urged parents and caregivers to watch for symptoms of heat-related illness, including extreme thirst, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, vomiting, confusion, rapid breathing, unusual sleepiness, reduced urination, and high fever. “Immediate medical attention should be sought if any of these warning signs appear,” he said. Dr Irfan also emphasised that families should promptly take children showing signs of heat-related illness to the nearest government hospital emergency department or a ChildLife-supported pediatric emergency facility for treatment. Rain alert issued as Lahore, Punjab districts brace for