As Kashmir experiences summer heat waves, health professionals are now making positive public health recommendations to protect residents from developing heat-related and/or food borne illnesses through achieving hydration and consuming fresh, home-cooked foods.
The Kashmir Valley typically has a temperate climate; however, with warmer summers becoming more common in {Kashmir}, the local community is working together to maintain their health by using advice given by doctors from the Directorate of Health Services (DHSK) and Government Medical College (GMC) in Srinagar. The most important message communicated to the community is that small but intentional changes can make a significant difference in combating summer heat.
Health professionals recommend that to stay healthy during the hot weather, everyone should drink plenty of water. Since families may use pre-packaged beverages for hydration during the summer months, they should look for ways to enjoy locally made, refreshing beverages made from natural ingredients like Lassi (buttermilk), lemonade, coconut water, and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) to help them restore their natural salts lost due to hot weather and keep their energy levels up.
Nutrition is also an important component of summer wellness. Health care professionals recommend choosing light, freshly cooked meals, washing all fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and avoiding unprotected or stale street food to greatly reduce the risk of food-borne illnesses could be greatly reduced by following these recommendations through sharing with the community.
Wearing loose, light-coloured clothing, as well as using an umbrella or hat to protect yourself from the sun will provide relief and reduce the temperature of your body (head, neck, arms).
This advisory provides an opportunity for our community to come together to support one another at this time.
Through checking on our families who may be at risk, drinking plenty of fluids, and adhering to basic principles of evidence-based practice, we will have an enjoyable and active summer season in the Valley!
