Health Department Issues Advisory to Protect Public from Cold Wave and Severe Winter Conditions

Raipur, Nov 2025 : In view of the increasing cold and cold-wave conditions across the state, the Health Department has issued essential precautionary guidelines to ensure public safety. Officials from the department advised people to avoid stepping out of their homes unnecessarily and to postpone travel as far as possible during a cold wave. To protect against cold, they recommended wearing warm clothing and consuming warm liquids regularly to maintain body heat.

They further advised that if anyone experiences symptoms such as severe shivering, yellowing or whitening of fingers, numbness, or similar signs, they should immediately consult a doctor. Special caution has been advised for children and the elderly, as they are more vulnerable during this season.

Officials also highlighted that many people use coal fires to stay warm, but burning coal in closed rooms is extremely dangerous. The carbon monoxide gas released from burning coal is toxic and can even prove fatal. They added that in cases of hypothermia (abnormally low body temperature), the affected person should be moved to a warm place immediately and covered with blankets or warm clothes to bring the body temperature back to normal. Medical consultation is necessary if muscle stiffness occurs.

Symptoms of hypothermia include a drop in body temperature, difficulty speaking, shivering, heavy breathing, muscle stiffness, and inability to sleep. In severe cases, the person may become unconscious, requiring immediate medical attention.

The District Health Department has appealed to citizens to remain careful during the intensifying cold and cold-wave conditions, wear weather-appropriate clothing, and seek prompt medical assistance at the nearest health centre if any health-related issue arises.