Heatwave grips AP; 325 heatstroke cases reported since March

Vijayawada: As a record heatwave continues to sweep Andhra Pradesh, the medical and health department has urged people to remain highly cautious and follow preventive measures to avoid heatstroke and dehydration.According to official data, the state has reported a total of 325 suspected heatstroke cases between March 1 and May 19, though no deaths have been recorded so far. Of these, 96 cases have been reported since May 1, indicating a sharp rise in heat-related illnesses this month. District-wise data shows Visakhapatnam recorded the highest number of cases (24), followed by Kakinada (17), Vizianagaram (13), YSR Kadapa (11), and Chittoor and Eluru with five cases each.At a high-level review meeting on preparedness with Health Department officials on Wednesday, health minister Y Satya Kumar directed medical personnel at all levels to remain on high alert and ensure adequate treatment facilities — from Ayushman Arogya Mandirs to teaching hospitals. He stressed the need for special care for children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses.On the occasion, health officials advised people to avoid going outdoors between 11 am and 4 pm, when heatwave conditions peak.

Citizens have also been urged to drink plenty of fluids, including water, buttermilk, and ORS, and to limit unnecessary travel.Officials stated that the government has stocked 1.44 crore ORS packets across the state, including nearly one crore at primary health centres and Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. More than 2.57 lakh ORS packets were distributed during the past week.The government is also using the AWARE (Advanced Warning Advisory for Resilient Ecosystem) platform to provide district-level heat alerts and forecasts, enabling authorities to take timely preventive measures. Officials noted that the number of suspected heatstroke cases this year is significantly lower compared to 1,692 cases recorded during the same period in 2025, indicating improved preparedness and awareness.