Children at ‘high risk’ amid heatwave: UNICEF

UNICEF expressed grave concern in a press release today over the health and safety of children in Bangladesh as a heatwave grips the country.

According to UNICEF's 2021 Children's Climate Risk Index (CCRI), children in Bangladesh are at "extremely high risk" of the impacts of climate change. The unusual rise in temperatures poses grave risks, particularly to newborns, infants, and young children, who are considered to be an especially vulnerable population, to heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and diarrhoea caused by dehydration, said Sheldon Yett, UNICEF representative in Bangladesh.

The primary and mass education ministry has ordered the closure of all government primary schools in the country till April 27 due to concerns over the impact of rising temperatures on children.

UNICEF urged parents to be extra vigilant in keeping their children hydrated and safe.

The severity of this heatwave underscores the urgent need for action to safeguard children from the worsening impacts of climate change, said Sheldon.

To protect children from this heatwave, UNICEF urged frontline workers, parents, families, caregivers and local authorities to protect children and pregnant women by taking the following steps:

Prevention

Wherever children are staying, create cooler places for children to sit or play. Avoid being outdoors during the hot midday and afternoon hours. Make sure that children wear light, breathable clothes, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

First aid

If a child or a pregnant woman shows symptoms of heat stress (for example dizziness, excessive sweating, nausea, mild fever, nosebleeds, muscle cramps, heath rashes in diaper area), place the person in a cool, shaded area with good ventilation and apply wet towels or cool water to the body. Administer water or Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS). Severe symptoms of heat stress (such as confusion or inability to respond, fainting, high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, seizures and loss of consciousness) require urgent hospital care.

Look out for your neighbours

Vulnerable families, children with disabilities, pregnant women, and the elderly face a higher risk of illness or death during heatwaves. Take the time to check on your neighbours, especially those who live alone."