With the highest percentage of children exposed to extreme heat in South Asia, UNICEF has issued an alarm raising concerns over the health of millions of children. In a statement issued by UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia Sanjay Wijesekera, the organisation stated that the soaring temperatures across South Asia can put millions of children’s health at risk if they are not protected or hydrated.
Unlike adults, children cannot adapt as quickly to temperature changes and have a higher risk of dehydration, heat strokes, diarrhoea, and other chronic health problems. Children rely on adults for protection and UNICEF has urged parents and caregivers to take steps to ensure that their children stay cool and hydrated during the peak heat wave. This can be done by checking regularly if the child is thirsty, sweating, feeling hot, vomiting, has a dry and sticky mouth, or headaches. Making sure that the child is clothed loosely is also important.
For young children, ice packs, fans, or misting with water can help lower their body temperature, while cold water immersion can help older children. However, UNICEF has stressed the need to take immediate action to protect children from heat-related illnesses. Health workers have also been urged to recognize the symptoms of heat stress in pregnant women and children and treat them quickly.
UNICEF has pledged its full support to the government and other stakeholders in working together to raise awareness about the issue and ensure the well-being of children during this extreme heat wave.