As the new academic year commences amid elevated temperatures and high humidity, government ministries and health experts have issued advisories urging students and parents to take precautions against heat-related health risks such as dehydration.

The Ministry of Labour highlighted the collective responsibility of families and educational institutions to safeguard children from excessive heat exposure. Parents are encouraged to ensure that children begin their days well hydrated and to limit their time spent under direct sunlight.

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) advised that students consume six to eight cups of water daily, emphasizing water as the preferred beverage over sugary drinks, particularly during hot weather or periods of physical activity. Paediatric specialist Dr. Vinod Kuriakose explained that children are more vulnerable to heat because their bodies warm more quickly than adults’, and they often do not recognize the need to drink fluids until already dehydrated. To address this, he recommended the use of insulated flasks to keep drinks cool and the inclusion of hydrating snacks such as watermelon and cucumber in children’s diets.

Dr. Kuriakose further advised keeping children in shaded or air-conditioned environments during the hottest parts of the day. He also highlighted key symptoms of dehydration—including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and dark urine—and stressed the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if these signs occur.

In response to the prevailing heat wave, several private schools have temporarily suspended outdoor activities until temperatures drop. Additionally, school transportation arrangements have been modified to reduce students' exposure to direct sunlight during transit.