Latest news with #OralRehydrationSolution
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Two lemons a day — how Delhi jails are helping keep inmates hydrated this summer
Despite Delhi seeing a 'wetter-than-usual' summer, the season has been particularly harsh on inmates at the city's prisons, including those in Tihar and Mandoli jails, officials observed. According to weather experts, humidity levels have increased, which has led to a rise in real-feel temperature and a higher heatwave index. To protect inmates from dehydration, the prison administration has taken several measures. As part of this initiative, lemons are being provided to all of them — inmates get two lemons a day to squeeze into their water. Approximately Rs 20 lakh worth of lemons are being procured every month to ensure a sufficient supply, a jail official said. Currently housing 19,000 inmates — including 16,500 (87%) undertrial prisoners — jails across Delhi see an estimated daily consumption of around 38,000 lemons. The distribution, officials said, has been taking place since April 15 and will continue till July 15 to help protect inmates from the blazing sun. This is said to be an annual initiative. Jails in Delhi have a maximum capacity to hold only 10,000 prisoners. According to an advisory issued by the Resident Medical Officer of Tihar Jail, proper ventilation must be maintained in all barracks, movement during afternoon hours should be minimised and inmates are to receive Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) packets daily. The advisory further instructs that all medical inspection (MI) rooms should keep sufficient quantities of ORS and glucose powder available for the inmates. 'Jail authorities have also put up white plastic sheets on jail windows to stop hot wind from entering the barracks,' said a jail official. However, provisions for air conditioning or coolers have not been made, despite the weather conditions. 'We always run the risk of inmates breaking the metal parts of coolers and fashioning them into improvised knives… we have seen this happen with plastic items too. Inmates have broken grills installed around water coolers and sharpened them into knives before,' said the official. Officials underlined that all medical rooms and jail hospitals are prepared to handle any heat stroke cases. In Tihar, the jail hospital has kept an availability of 120 beds, whereas in Mandoli jail, the hospital has kept an availability of 70-75 beds. Meanwhile, medical rooms across jails in Delhi have kept 10-20 beds available for any emergencies, officials said. However, the inmates' diet remains the same despite the heat. 'Apart from these provisions, the jail canteen has cooling drinks such as chaas and lassi available. Inmates can even buy summer fruits like watermelon from the canteen, using their PPC (Prisoners' Private Cash),' the jail official explained. An inmate is allowed a maximum limit of Rs 12,000 to be spent in the commissary.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Dehydration isn't just a summer problem - Here's why Oral Rehydration Solution is a year-round essential
Dehydration isn't just a summer problem - Here's why Oral Rehydration Solution is a year-round essential Dehydration is a major health concern that is often ignored and only paid attention to in conditions like diarrhoea, vomiting, or extreme heat exhaustion. Often underestimated, dehydration can quickly become life-threatening. For common understanding, dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. This loss may happen due to illness (such as diarrhoea or vomiting), excessive sweating, or simply not drinking enough water. Common symptoms include dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, and reduced urine output. It is also important to understand that dehydration is not confined to any particular season and needs to be addressed in a timely manner. Recognising the signs and symptoms of dehydration, and taking steps to prevent and treat it, is crucial for maintaining good health—needless to mention, with due advice from your medical practitioner. A simple solution to address this big problem of dehydration is Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). It is important to know and take note that an ORS approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) has a balanced mix of salts and sugars, with an osmolarity of 245 mosmol/litre. A WHO-approved ORS will always have the osmolarity written on the pack label, and it is important to identify this. This combination optimises the absorption of fluid and electrolytes, which helps quickly restore and replenish the loss. Contrary to popular belief, high-sugar beverages can worsen dehydration rather than relieve it. These drinks can draw water out of the body, intensifying the feeling of thirst and leaving individuals even more dehydrated. That's why it's important to choose scientifically formulated solutions like Oral Rehydration Solution, which are designed to rehydrate effectively. Today, there's a lot of misleading communication in the market that can confuse consumers—many products are labelled with 'ORS' but don't meet the World Health Organisation's recommended formulation. This can lead people to choose products that don't actually provide the right balance of electrolytes and glucose needed to treat dehydration effectively. It's essential to educate consumers on identifying genuine, scientifically backed ORS solutions. Managing dehydration effectively means more than just drinking water—it's about consuming the right balance of fluid and electrolytes. A scientifically formulated Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) contains the ideal mix of glucose and electrolytes that help your body absorb water quickly and restore lost fluids and salts. Choosing the right Oral Rehydration Solution can make a real difference in how fast you recover from dehydration. FDC Electral is committed to combating dehydration by raising awareness about the vital role of Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS). The brand believes in the power of this simple, effective solution to manage and prevent dehydration, and is actively working along with the medical fraternity to educate people and patients at large on its importance and usage. ELECTRAL , a brand trusted by Doctors & relied upon by millions of people has been rehydrating lives since 1972. Electral is available in standard packaging of: 21.8 g (to be reconstituted in 1 litre of water) 4.4 g (in 200 ml of water) 200 ml Ready-to-Drink Tetrapak To meet varying taste preferences, ELECTRAL is now available in five new refreshing flavours: Fresh Mango Shikanji Lime Lychee Burst Pinacolada Punch Blackcurrant Blast As consumer preferences continue to evolve, FDC is committed to keeping ELECTRAL at the forefront through continuous innovation and the introduction of new offerings that cater to emerging needs. The above is non-editorial content and TIL does not guarantee, vouch or endorse any of it. Please take all steps necessary to ascertain that any information and content provided is correct, updated, and verified. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Time of India
22-05-2025
- Climate
- Time of India
City's Heat Action Plan: Whitewashing rooftops to reduce heat, raising awareness
Prayagraj: To combat the intensifying heatwave, the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation is speeding up its "Heat Action Plan" to apply white paint or lime on rooftops in slum areas, which is expected to reduce indoor temperatures by 3-4 degrees Celsius. Additionally, Public Address Systems will broadcast radio jingles and video messages at major intersections to educate the public about heatwave safety measures. An 18-member committee, led by municipal commissioner Seelam Sai Teja, has been formed to oversee the implementation, comprising representatives from various departments, including health, education and emergency services, as well as NGOs and other stakeholders. A workshop at the Smart City auditorium, led by additional municipal commissioner Deependra Yadav, emphasised the collaborative efforts between the Uttar Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (UPSDMA), the Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH) Gandhinagar, and the municipal corporation. Experts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Atul Kumar Mishra and Akash Mishra, noted that Prayagraj has experienced record-breaking temperatures in recent years, including a peak of 45.4 degrees Celsius in May 2025 and a scorching 48.8 degrees Celsius last year. Speaking at the workshop, Kaniz Fatima, project director (drought management), UPSDMA, emphasised that the state govt is actively executing the state heat action plan across all districts. The efforts have also been lauded by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Govt of India, which recommended the expansion of such plans to major cities like Jhansi, Agra, Prayagraj and Lucknow. PMC authorities have decided to implement a comprehensive action plan to combat the rising threat of heatwaves in the city. Key components of the plan include broadcasting audio messages through public address systems to raise awareness about heatwave precautions. In slum areas, rooftops will be whitewashed to reduce indoor temperatures. Additionally, the civic body will set up drinking water stations and shaded rest areas in public locations. The plan also emphasises the promotion of green belts and ensuring easy access to drinking water and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) to help residents stay safe during extreme heat conditions. "We have decided to undertake several steps to protect the denizens from the heatwave, especially those living in the slums and with limited resources to protect themselves from the scorching heat," said Teja. Painting rooftops with a mixture of lime (chuna) and fevicol. Lime, known for its high solar reflectance, bounces off the sun's harsh rays, keeping roof surfaces cooler.
NDTV
14-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
How To Make ORS At Home: Easy, Affordable And Perfect For Beating Dehydration
Whether you are sweating it out in peak summer, dealing with a dodgy stomach, or just need to bounce back after a long workout, staying hydrated is non-negotiable. Sometimes plain water does not do the job. You need something more powerful to bring back those lost salts and fluids. That is where ORS comes in fast, reliable, and genuinely effective. And the best part? You do not always need to rush to the chemist. You can easily make this homemade ORS recipe using just three everyday ingredients sitting in your kitchen. What Is ORS? A Quick Fix For Dehydration ORS stands for Oral Rehydration Solution, a basic but smart mix of water, sugar, and salt that works like a charm to replace lost fluids. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends ORS as a key tool for managing dehydration, especially in places with limited access to healthcare. It might look simple, but it has saved countless lives by helping people recover from dehydration caused by illnesses like diarrhoea. According to the American Public Health Association (APHA), ORS alone can handle up to 93 per cent of dehydration cases in children under five, especially when diarrhoea strikes. Why Homemade ORS Works So Well This is not just a random mix- it is about getting the ratio right. ORS is designed to help your body absorb water efficiently, using just salt, sugar, and water in perfect balance. Here is why each part matters: Sugar helps sodium move across the gut lining, making sure it gets absorbed properly. Salt draws water into the bloodstream to maintain hydration levels. Water helps carry both salt and sugar throughout the body, fixing the electrolyte imbalance. How To Make Homemade ORS - Approved By Experts The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) shares a straightforward recipe on its official site. It is a great go-to for a quick rehydration fix. Step 1: Wash your hands with soap and water before starting. Step 2: Take one litre of clean drinking water in a container. Step 3: Add half a teaspoon of salt (around 3.5 grams) and four tablespoons of sugar (around 40 grams). Step 4: Stir until everything dissolves completely. Homemade ORS Recipes That You Can Make 1. Rice Water ORS IFRC recommends rice water instead of plain water. It naturally contains potassium and magnesium-great for restoring lost electrolytes and boosting the mix. 2. Tomato Or Cranberry Juice ORS A study by the University of Virginia highlights that tomato or cranberry juice mixed with water and a pinch of salt creates a nutrient-packed rehydration drink. You get the benefit of added vitamins while staying hydrated. 3. Carrot Soup ORS Another IFRC-approved idea- carrot soup as a base for your ORS. It adds flavour and nutrition, making it more appealing for both kids and adults who do not like plain ORS. How Much ORS Should You Drink? Dosage Tips By Age The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has shared practical ORS dosage suggestions for different age groups. Here is a quick breakdown: For babies and toddlers: Half a litre of ORS per day. For children: One litre per day. For adults: Up to three litres a day. CDC also advises checking with a doctor if dehydration comes with vomiting or diarrhoea. Homemade ORS helps, but it might not be enough if there is a bigger health issue involved. Some Quick Safety Tips For Making ORS At Home 1. Stick To The Right Measurements Adding too much salt or sugar can do more harm than good. Follow the recipe carefully for it to work properly. 2. Always Use Clean Water Filtered or boiled water is best, especially for children. Dirty water can make the problem worse. 3. Make It Fresh Every Time ORS should always be made fresh. If you need to store it, use a clean bottle and try to use it within six hours. Think of ORS as your home's emergency hydration kit. It is easy to make, costs next to nothing, and works. Learning how to make ORS at home is a simple but powerful step in keeping yourself and your family safe during sickness or heat waves.
Zawya
02-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
A simple solution keeping communities in Cameroon hydrated and healthy
Water, sugar, salt—three basic ingredients that, when combined correctly, can mean the difference between life and death for someone battling a diarrhoeal disease. Learn how the Cameroon Red Cross is spreading this knowledge to keep communities across the country healthy and safe. One day in July 2023, Rachel and Irene from the Cameroon Red Cross Society were out and about in Bamvele village, Cameroon, running routine health promotion activities as part of the Community Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Programme (CP3). They'd called a community meeting and were in the middle of sharing important messages about detecting and preventing infectious diseases, when someone caught Rachel's eye. 'We were in the middle of our session when I saw one lady in particular who was doing her washing and listening really closely. When we finished, she approached us to ask us questions. It was at this point she told us about her mother who had been experiencing diarrhoea for two days and who was lying down at home,' she Rachel. The young woman's name was Najassa. She explained that seeing her mother weak and bedridden for two days had made her extremely worried. But Rachel and Irene reassured her that they could put her mother on the road to recovery using three ingredients she likely already had at home. They proceeded to show Najassa how to prepare something called Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) —a medically formulated drink used to prevent or treat dehydration caused by diarrhoea or vomiting. ORS works by quickly restoring a person's fluids and essential minerals and is a vital tool in the fight against diarrhoeal diseases, which remain one of the leading causes of death in low-income countries. Rachel and Irene taught Najassa to mix one litre of drinking water, eight sugar cubes and two to three pinches of salt in a bottle—shaking well to make sure everything was properly combined. They then told her to give the drink to her mother and keep preparing it for her until she felt better. 'As soon as I started drinking the solution, I felt my strength come back. My daughter asked me 'mum, have you drunk all the medicine yet? The Red Cross told me you have to finish it. I'm going to make you some more.' I finished it all, and by the third day I was no longer suffering from diarrhoea. I trust the Red Cross because the medicine they gave me stopped my diarrhoea, it cured me,' says Amina, Najassa's mother. Thankfully, Amina made a full recovery. And beyond Amina's own personal experience, Rachel and Irene have noticed tangible behaviour change within the community in Bamvele when it comes to protecting themselves from and preventing disease outbreaks. 'We've noticed that now, when people are struck by diarrhoea, they prepare ORS themselves because we've shown them how to do it and they are happy. It's really heartwarming to see,' explains Rachel. Their disease prevention efforts, and those of so many more Cameroon Red Cross staff and volunteers, are also recognized by local health authorities. 'The Red Cross plays an important role in supporting our epidemic preparedness and response activities. They're heavily involved in awareness-raising activities at the community level and provide us with logistical and technical support. The Red Cross and health really go hand in hand,' explains Dr Diane Foe from Cameroon's Delegation of Public Health in the East region. As for Najassa, she feels the help and health knowledge she received from the Cameroon Red Cross will stay with her for years to come. 'If I see someone in my community suffering from this kind of diarrhoea, I'm going to do the same thing I did for my mum. I'll make the solution the Red Cross taught me about. It's so effective. You can do it at home and it gives you strength so you can get to the hospital.' 'Rachel made sure to call me several days later to make sure my mother was okay. She really is an angel for our community. Without the Red Cross, I don't know where my mother would be right now. So I thank them from the bottom of my heart.' The activities featured in this article are part of the multi-country Community Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Programme (CP3). Funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), CP3 supported communities, Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and other partners to prepare for, prevent, detect and respond to disease threats. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
