New Delhi: Amid scorching heat conditions in many parts of the country, the Center on Monday issued a detailed public health advisory, warning people against prolonged exposure to extreme heat and urging them to take immediate precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.The advisory issued by AYUSH under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in coordination with the Ministry of Health stressed that infants, the elderly, pregnant women, outdoor workers and people suffering from chronic diseases like heart disease and hypertension are at greater risk during heatwaves.The government has advised citizens to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight during the afternoon peak hours, wear loose cotton clothes and drink fluids rich in electrolytes. It flagged symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, dehydration, fainting, seizures and high body temperature as warning signs of heat-related illness, adding that heatstroke should be treated as a medical emergency.The advisory comes as temperatures remain above normal in many states, raising concerns about heat stress, especially among vulnerable populations and workers engaged in outdoor activities.Special instructions have also been issued for workplaces, public gatherings and sporting events, including shady rest areas, regular hydration breaks and awareness measures for early identification of heat stress symptoms.Along with traditional precautions, the advice includes traditional wellness measures from Ayurveda, Siddha, Yoga, Unani and Homeopathy systems. Recommended practices include consumption of buttermilk, coconut water and lemon-based drinks in addition to cool foods like cucumber, watermelon, melon, bottle gourd and tomato. Yoga-based breathing techniques such as Sheetali Pranayama have also been suggested to reduce heat stress.The Center has urged people to regularly monitor heatwave alerts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and seek immediate medical help through the emergency helpline 108 or 102 in severe cases.