As Rajasthan battles extreme heat, health officials on Saturday confirmed 344 reported cases of heatstroke across the state in 2025, though no fatalities have been recorded so far. The state health department has proactively set up facilities across hospitals to manage and treat heat-related illnesses effectively.
“With temperatures rising steadily in recent days, the risk of heatstroke has increased,” said Dr. Narottam Sharma, nodal officer for climate change at the health department. “In 2024, we recorded over 6,000 heatstroke cases and 17 deaths. This year, the numbers have significantly reduced, indicating improved preparedness and public awareness.”
Hospitals throughout Rajasthan, including the state-run SMS Medical College in Jaipur, have been on high alert. The college recently issued a public advisory against using paracetamol for treating heatstroke-induced fever. “Heatstroke is not caused by infections—there are no pyrogens involved—so antipyretics like paracetamol are ineffective,” explained Dr. Sunil Mahawar, nodal officer for seasonal diseases at SMS Medical College.
Doctors warned that in heatstroke, body temperatures can soar beyond 104°F, and attempting self-medication can be dangerous. “Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Rapid cooling with methods such as whole-body sponging and intravenous fluids is the only effective treatment,” Dr. Mahawar added.
The condition can severely impact vital organs, including the brain, liver, kidneys, and heart. “The body’s natural ability to regulate temperature breaks down with prolonged heat exposure, leading to life-threatening complications,” he noted.
Dr. Anita Meena, former consultant with AYUSH, advised the public to take basic precautions like wearing light-colored clothes, using umbrellas or caps, and staying hydrated with water and lemon-based drinks before venturing outdoors.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge residents to avoid peak sun hours, remain hydrated, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, or high body temperature arise. Thanks to early intervention and increased awareness, Rajasthan has so far managed to avoid heatwave-related fatalities in 2025 despite ongoing extreme weather.