NEW DELHI/KATHMANDU, 23 May 2024 – “UNICEF is deeply concerned about the health and safety of babies and young children as debilitating heatwave conditions take hold in several countries.

“Across many northern states in India, including Delhi, temperatures spiked to 43- 47 C on Sunday, according to a 5-day heatwave warning issued by the Indian Meteorological Department on 20 May. A severe heatwave is expected in Pakistan from May 23 to 27, according to an advisory from Pakistan’s Meteorological Department. The Government of Punjab has closed schools from 25 - 31 May.

“The soaring temperatures across South Asia can put millions of children’s health at risk if they are not protected or hydrated. Unlike adults, children cannot adapt as quickly to temperature changes.  They cannot remove excess heat from their bodies, which can lead to dehydration, higher body temperature, rapid heartbeat, cramps, severe headache, confusion, fainting and coma in young children.

“Dehydration can cause heat strokes and diarrhoea. It can also result in an increased risk of chronic respiratory conditions, organ dysfunction like kidney failure, and chronic issues due to congenital defects.