The Tamil Nadu government on Thursday issued a fresh health advisory as heatwave conditions are expected to persist across the state.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) said in its bulletin that higher maximum and minimum temperatures, along with high humidity, are likely to cause discomfort, especially in coastal regions.
With temperatures crossing 40°C in several districts, including Chennai which recorded 41.1°C on Wednesday, the heatwave is expected to continue for the next few days, the bulletin added.
A state government release said the public health and disease control department has issued an advisory warning that infants, young children, pregnant women and the elderly are at higher risk of heat-related illnesses.
It explained that while the average human body temperature is around 37°C, exposure to higher ambient temperatures forces the body to cool itself through sweating and increased blood flow to the skin. Prolonged exposure can lead to dehydration and heat stress.
The advisory listed symptoms of heat-related illness, including excessive thirst, headache, fatigue, dizziness, muscle cramps, reduced urine output, fainting and body pain.
Corporations across the state, including Chennai, have set up treatment facilities for heat-related conditions in urban primary health centres, welfare centres and government hospitals. Public awareness campaigns on heat safety are also underway.
(With inputs from PTI)