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Extreme heatwaves Delhi: Five health risks associated with temperatures exceeding 45 degrees

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A severe heatwave that reached 45–47 degrees in several areas of North India, including Delhi, has made it crucial to take precautions against heat exposure in order to prevent heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related ailments. Elevated body temperatures can cause severe harm to the brain, heart, kidneys, and other organs, as well as other chronic problems. It is imperative that you stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day and stay well-hydrated by drinking lots of water, as well as fruits, vegetables, buttermilk, nimbu paani, and coconut water.

The body’s natural capacity to regulate temperature may be severely compromised above 45 degrees or higher, which can result in disorders like heat stroke, which can cause fever, disorientation, dizziness, or seizures. Extended exposure to high temperatures might potentially harm vital organs such as the heart, brain, and other tissues. If proper measures are not taken to cool the body down, it may potentially be deadly.

According to Dr. Tushar Tayal, Consultant in Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram, exposure to outside temperatures more than 45°C (113°F) can have detrimental, even fatal, impacts on human health.

Heat stroke can result from the body’s inability to control its internal temperature at such high temperatures. High body temperature (over 40°C or 104°F), disorientation, unconsciousness, and occasionally convulsions are among the symptoms. Heat stroke can be fatal if medical attention is not received right away. Severe dehydration results from the body losing fluids quickly through perspiration in an effort to cool down. According to the specialist, “this can result in symptoms like intense thirst, dry mouth, decreased urine production, and in severe cases, confusion, dizziness, and fainting.”

Unsettling consequences of the heatwave

Dr. Tayal lists further negative consequences of being in a severe heatwave:

Damage to the brain and heart: Hyperthermia, or dangerously elevated body temperature, can be brought on by extended exposure to intense heat. If left untreated, this illness can harm the muscles, heart, brain, kidneys, and kidneys, which can result in long-term health problems or even death.

Extended exposure to high temperatures can result in heat exhaustion, a milder type of heat-related disease. Severe perspiration, weakness, headache, nausea, dizziness, and cramping in the muscles are some of the symptoms. It can develop into heat stroke if left untreated.

Skin damage: High temperatures can lead to serious skin damage, such as sunburn and, in severe cases, second-degree burns, especially when accompanied with bright sunshine. Long-term exposure to UV radiation can also raise the chance of developing skin cancer.

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cites the following five important health impacts of temperatures rising beyond 45 degrees:

1. Heat stroke and exhaustion
The body finds it difficult to regulate its temperature when it is exposed to high temperatures over prolonged periods of time. Heat exhaustion may result from this, which is characterised by symptoms including headaches, nausea, dizziness, and profuse perspiration. Heat exhaustion can develop into heat stroke, a potentially fatal illness when the body’s ability to regulate its temperature fails, if it is not treated quickly. Heat stroke is characterised by a high body temperature (over 40 degrees Celsius), disorientation, a fast heartbeat, and unconsciousness. Getting medical help right away is essential to avoiding fatalities or major problems.

2. Lack of fluids
The body quickly loses water through perspiration when it is really hot, trying to cool down. Insufficient consumption of fluids may result in dehydration. When the body loses more fluids than it takes in, it becomes dehydrated and can’t perform its regular tasks. Dehydration symptoms include weariness, dizziness, dark urine, dry mouth, and decreased urination. Electrolyte abnormalities, shock, and renal damage can result from severe dehydration.

3. Stress on the heart
Elevated body temperature exerts additional strain on the cardiovascular system. Blood arteries dilate (expand) to remove heat, and the heart beats harder to pump more blood to the skin’s surface. This increased effort raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes and can worsen pre-existing cardiac problems. Extreme heat events put older people, those with cardiovascular disease, and people with hypertension at risk.

4. Issues with breathing
Because ground-level ozone and other pollutants are more concentrated in warm weather, the quality of the air might deteriorate. The combination of high temperatures and poor air quality can worsen respiratory ailments including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, heat encourages the spread of allergens and particulate particles, which worsens respiratory conditions.

5. Skin issues and heat rash
Heat rash, which is characterised by sweating and prolonged exposure to high temperatures, can result in swollen and clogged sweat ducts, which can produce pain and itchy red lumps on the skin. Furthermore, too much sun exposure raises the possibility of being sunburned, which damages skin and raises the chance of developing skin cancer. In periods of intense heat, wearing adequate clothes and sunscreen is vital to protecting the skin.

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Preventative actions

To lessen the damaging effects of intense heat on health

Keep yourself hydrated by drinking a lot of water all day long, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Steer clear of coffee and alcohol since they might dehydrate the body.

Keep cool by spending time in air-conditioned spaces throughout the hottest parts of the day. Take cold showers, use fans, and dress in airy, loose-fitting clothing.

Minimise outdoor activity: Steer clear of vigorous activities, especially during the warmest times of the day. If you must go outside, make sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent rests in the shade.

Keep an eye on those who are susceptible: Due to their increased vulnerability to heat-related diseases, keep a watch on the elderly, young children, and individuals with ongoing medical issues.

Use sunscreen: To shield your skin from damaging UV rays, slather on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF.

Being aware of the rising temperatures and being prepared are essential to avoiding health problems associated to heat. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe from the risks of severe heat by keeping up with weather predictions and heat advisories and by taking preventative measures.

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Fashion

In a lavender Manish Malhotra saree, Hania Aamir sports her most gorgeous ethnic ensemble to date. View its astounding cost.

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Hania Aamir serves stunning ethnic fashion inspiration in lavender Manish Malhotra tissue saree. Wondering how much it costs? Scroll down for all the details.

Hania Aamir is leaving fashion lovers spellbound with her stunning ethnic diaries. The Pakistani actor has been rocking back-to-back traditional outfits by Indian designers, turning her Insta feed into a goldmine of fashion inspo. For her latest look, the 27-year-old slipped into six yards of grace and looked straight out of a royal fairytale. Let’s break down her saree look and steal some style tips for your ethnic wardrobe. Hania Aamir stuns in lavender saree
On Monday, Hania took to Instagram and uploaded a series of gorgeous snaps accompanied by the caption “gave mermaid.” Draped in a dreamy lavender saree, the star looked absolutely breathtaking while serving some striking glam poses. Let’s take a moment to soak in her ethereal beauty.

Hania’s saree is crafted from luxurious tissue fabric and features intricately embroidered borders, showcasing stunning zari work, beads, and sequin detailing throughout. Draped to perfection, she let the pallu elegantly cascade from her shoulder, adding a regal charm to her look. She teamed it up with a matching embroidered blouse, complete with delicate handmade tassels at the back.

How much does her saree cost?
Can’t stop swooning over Hania’s gorgeous saree? We’ve got all the details you need to add this stunner to your collection. Her six yards is straight from the shelves of ace designer Manish Malhotra and is priced at ₹3,95,000.

Hania accessorised her ethnic look with dazzling diamond jewellery, including statement drop earrings, a chic choker necklace, a sleek bracelet, and a stunning ring adorning her finger. Her dewy makeup featured shimmer eyeshadow, winged eyeliner, mascara-coated lashes, blushed cheeks, a luminous highlighter, and glossy nude lipstick. With her long, luscious tresses left loose in a side partition, she perfectly finished off her look.

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Health

Knowing the main distinctions and risks between HMPV and COVID-19.

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As India logs 5 cases of HMPV, here’s all you need to know about how human metapneumovirus is different from Covid-19 and warning signs to watch out for.

HMPV virus is not a novel virus – it was first isolated in 2001 by Van den Hoogen and her colleagues in Netherlands in the nasopharyngeal secretions of children with respiratory tract infections. The virus was named human metapneumovirus because it was a metapneumovirus that used humans as a host.

The human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild cold-like symptoms. Studies show it has circulated in human populations since the 1970s, though it was first identified by scientists in 2001.

The virus accounts for 4-16% of acute respiratory infections globally, with cases usually peaking between November and May. While most adults have developed immunity through previous exposure, hMPV can cause more severe symptoms in infants encountering it for the first time and in people with weakened immune systems.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sangeeta V Budur, Consultant – Paediatrics and Paediatric Intensive Care at Aster RV Hospital, shared, “It is known to cause a range of illnesses from mild upper respiratory infections to severe pneumonia , bronchiolitis and acute respiratory distress syndrome. About 5 to 25% of the acute pediatric lower respiratory tract infections are associated with HMPV. The viral outbreaks peak in winter and spring season in northern hemisphere and June and July in southern hemisphere.”

Who are the vulnerable population?
Dr Sangeeta V Budur revealed, “No age group is immune to the virus, reinfection occurs throughout the life but subsequent infections are mild. Infants, children under 2 years, elderly, Immuno-compromised persons or those with underlying chronic medical conditions are more vulnerable to the severe disease. The HMPV infection appears to be ubiquitous, as virtually all children are exposed by the age of 5 years.”

How does it spread?
According to Dr Sangeeta V Budur, just like any other respiratory illness, HMPV spread via respiratory droplets i.e. coughing, sneezing or contact with infected secretions.

How is it different from Covid -19 ?
Dr Sangeeta V Budur informed, “Both viruses cause minor respiratory symptoms in most of the infected people but Covid -19 has a broader spectrum of symptoms involving multiple body systems and a higher potential for systemic complications. The comparison between the two viruses is difficult though the spread is through the droplets via the respiratory route in both. HMPV is less transmittable and has less severe symptoms as compared to Covid-19.”

What are the symptoms of HMPV virus?
Dr Sangeeta V Budur answered, “Most of the symptoms are mild flu like lasting 5- 7 days requiring outpatient visits. But in children under five , HMPV is responsible for 3-10% of hospital admissions. Among the hospitalized children high grade fever, respiratory distress, wheezing rare the predominant symptoms.”

What are the respiratory illnesses caused by HMPV?
As per Dr Sangeeta V Budur, HMPV is mainly known to cause upper respiratory tract infection in most of the children but bronchiolitis, severe pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome in few which require hospitalization, oxygen therapy including mechanical ventilation.

How to diagnose HMPV infection?
Dr Sangeeta V Budur highlighted, “Diagnosing HMPV based solely on symptoms is difficult, as it mimics other respiratory infections like respiratory syncytial virus( RSV) and influenza. PCR testing on nasopharyngeal secretions for detecting HMPV RNA is the gold standard. In India, surveillance systems like ICMR and the Integrated disease surveillance Programme( IDSP) regularly test for respiratory viruses including HMPV.”

What are treatment options for HMPV?
There is no specific antiviral drug available. Dr Sangeeta V Budur said, “Treatment is mainly symptomatic and supportive with antipyretics and antihistaminics. Hospitalised children may need oxygen therapy , nebulizations and rarely mechanical ventilation among the severely infected.”

What are preventive measures for HMPV?
As of now there is no targeted therapy/vaccine available for HMPV. Dr Sangeeta V Budur suggested, “Proper hand hygiene – washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 30 seconds. Cough etiquette such as covering the nose and mouth while sneezing and coughing, wearing a mask can limit the spread of the virus. Avoiding close contact with infected individuals, regularly disinfecting touched surfaces are additional measures.”

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Health

HMPV: Bengaluru Hospital’s 8-month-old is said to have tested positive.

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The infant and its family had no history of recent travel and did not show any symptoms of concern.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka, identified through routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens.

As part of ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses nationwide, the ICMR detected these two cases. One case involves an eight-month-old male infant in Bengaluru, whose sample collected on January 2 tested positive for HMPV. According to sources in the BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike) health department, the infant and their family had no recent travel history and showed no concerning symptoms.

The second case involves a three-month-old female infant with a history of bronchopneumonia, who tested positive for HMPV after being admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru. She has since been discharged and is recovering, the Union Health ministry said.

HMPV primarily affects children and is known to be present in about 0.7 per cent of flu cases globally. However, Karnataka health officials have stated that they lack detailed information on the specific strain in question.

Responding to the developments, Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said on Monday, “This is not India’s first case. The virus has been around for years, but this could be a new strain. More details are needed to ascertain that.”

What is HMPV?
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has recently garnered attention due to videos and reports circulating on social media, suggesting that hospitals in China are overwhelmed by a surge in respiratory illnesses, including HMPV. Posts also claim that outbreaks of multiple viruses, including HMPV, influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19, have contributed to overcrowding in both hospitals and cemeteries.

HMPV, first identified in 2001 by researchers in the Netherlands, is a significant cause of acute respiratory infections, according to the American Lung Association. The virus primarily spreads through close contact with infected individuals, either through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, or by touching contaminated surfaces such as doorknobs or toys.

In the United States, HMPV typically circulates more frequently during the winter and spring months, overlapping with other respiratory infections like Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and the flu.

Symptoms of HMPV
The symptoms of HMPV can vary in severity and commonly include cough, fever, runny or stuffy nose, and sore throat. Some individuals may also experience wheezing and shortness of breath (dyspnea). In certain cases, a rash may develop as part of the infection.

According to Google Trends, searches for ‘HMPV virus symptoms’ surged on Sunday and peaked on Monday. Related queries included ‘fatigue,’ ‘fatigue meaning,’ ‘HPV virus cases in India news,’ ‘nasal congestion,’ and ‘HMPV virus in Bangalore’. Most searches originated from Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. The spike followed reports of two HMPV cases detected in Karnataka on Monday.

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