Health officials said day and night temperatures across the state could drop by 5 to 7 degrees Celsius, increasing the risk of cold-related illnesses. In Bhopal, the gap between daytime and nighttime temperatures touched a worrying 21.1 degrees on Wednesday, with the mercury ranging from 26.6°C during the day to 5.1°C at night.
The Health Department has circulated detailed guidelines to deans of medical colleges, chief medical and health officers and civil surgeons, directing them to strengthen preparedness. The advisory is based on recommendations issued by the National Disaster Management Authority and the National Centre for Disease Control.
Hospitals have been instructed to ensure round-the-clock emergency services, adequate stocks of essential medicines, blankets and functional equipment. Medical staff have also been asked to treat suspected hypothermia cases as emergencies and ensure immediate hospitalisation.
The department has identified senior citizens above 65 years, children below five, patients suffering from heart or respiratory diseases and homeless persons as the most vulnerable groups. Officials have stressed the need for heightened surveillance and timely intervention to prevent fatalities.
Dr R.K. Badve, retired surgeon and specialist at JP Hospital, said large fluctuations between day and night temperatures place significant stress on the body. “Such variations can aggravate cardiac and respiratory conditions and also lead to skin infections due to heat exposure during the day and cold at night,” he said.
Public advisories have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel during cold hours, protect themselves from cold air, consume warm fluids and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamin C. Health authorities said awareness at the community level will be critical in reducing preventable cold-related deaths in the coming weeks.
