A severe heatwave is currently sweeping across Bangladesh, posing serious health risks—especially to children. Over the health and safety of children in this extreme weather, as soaring temperatures continue to impact communities nationwide.
According to UNICEF’s Children’s Climate Risk Index (CCRI) released in 2021, children in Bangladesh are among the most vulnerable in the world to the impacts of climate change. The ongoing heatwave exemplifies this crisis, with newborns, infants, and young children facing the gravest threats.
Extreme heat significantly increases the risk of illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration-induced diarrhea in children. In light of these dangers, the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education has ordered the closure of all government primary schools across the country until April 27 as a precautionary measure.
Parents and caregivers should take extra precautions to protect children from dehydration and heat-related complications during this time. The organization emphasizes that immediate and decisive action is necessary to safeguard children from the current heatwave and the escalating effects of climate change.
Key Recommendations:
- Preventive Measures:
- Ensure children stay in cool, shaded, and well-ventilated areas at home or wherever they are.
- Avoid sending children outdoors during the hottest parts of the day—typically in the afternoon.
- Dress children in lightweight, breathable clothing.
- Make sure they drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- First Aid for Heat Stress:
If a child or pregnant woman shows signs of heat stress—such as dizziness, excessive sweating, nausea, low-grade fever, nosebleeds, muscle cramps, or heat rashes in diapered areas—take the following steps:
- Move them to a cool, shaded place with proper ventilation.
- Wipe their body with a wet towel or apply cool water to bring down body temperature.
- Encourage them to drink fluids, preferably clean water or oral rehydration solution (ORS).
- Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms become severe—such as unresponsiveness, fainting, high fever, rapid heartbeat, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
- Care for the Vulnerable:
- Look out for your neighbors, particularly those who are vulnerable—such as pregnant women, young children, people with disabilities, and the elderly.
- Offer help to those who live alone or lack access to adequate care.
Rising temperatures likely to become more frequent and intense due to climate change, protecting children and vulnerable populations must become a national priority.
