Metro India News | Hyderabad 

In view of the rising temperatures and increasing risk of heat-related illnesses, Minister for Health, Medical and Family Welfare Damodar Raja Narasimha unveiled two key public awareness posters at the Telangana State Medical Services and Infrastructure Development Corporation (TGMSIDC) office here on Monday.

The first poster, prepared by the Health department, outlines essential precautions to be taken to prevent heatstroke. On the occasion, the Minister emphasised the importance of public awareness in combating heat-related health risks.

He appealed to the people to remain vigilant and follow preventive measures such as avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak afternoon hours, carrying drinking water when stepping outdoors, wearing light, breathable clothing and using protective headgear such as caps or umbrellas and seeking immediate medical attention at the nearest Government health facility in case of dizziness, fatigue, or other symptoms related to heatstroke.

The Minister also urged the people to support one another by helping those affected by heatstroke and contacting emergency services via 108 for timely medical intervention. He instructed health officials to take up extensive IEC (Information, Education & Communication) activities across the state, particularly targeting vulnerable groups such as children, senior citizens, and pregnant women.

The Minister directed the department to ensure readiness of medical teams across all levels — from Primary Health Centres to District and Teaching Hospitals — for the treatment and management of heatstroke cases. He said the special medical teams should be deployed in high-risk areas and the availability of ORS, IV fluids, and essential medicines should be ensured.

In a parallel initiative, the Minister unveiled a second awareness poster developed by the Food Safety Wing of the Health department, focusing on safe and natural methods for mango ripening. Stressing the importance of public health and food safety, Raja Narasimha appealed to mango traders and vendors to adopt traditional, non-toxic methods for ripening mangoes. He categorically stated that the use of banned chemicals such as carbide for artificial ripening poses serious health hazards and is strictly prohibited under the Food Safety and Standards Act.

The Minister warned that stringent action will be taken against violators, including penalties and legal proceedings. He instructed food safety officials to intensify surveillance and conduct regular inspections across fruit markets and storage facilities. Health Secretary Christina Z Chongthu, Commissioner RV Karnan, DME Narendra Kumar and other senior officials from the Health department and the Food Safety wing were also present.