In the recent days, Punjab is experiencing extreme cold wave conditions in the month of January 2026. Most of the districts of Punjab are recording lowest temperatures below 5°C, mercury in some parts of the state has even touched 0°C. Amid this biting cold the schools in Punjab have been reopened with a revised time schedule. Parents across the state are extremely concerned about the health and safety of their offspring and wonder if it is even safe to send their kids to school in such biting cold.
Dr. Naresh Bathla, Associate Professor and Head of Department of Chest at PIMS have shed some light on the issue and discussed these concerns of the parents.
Dr. Naresh Bathla says that when temperatures drop significantly low, chest related issues start to surface more and kids are more prone to this as they have less resistance compared to an adult. Common cold is very recurrent in kids as they are more sensitive. The low temperatures, foggy conditions prompt to higher risk of infections. This situation becomes even more frightening for children with pre-existing respiratory issue. The doctor claims that sending kids to schools in such a vulnerable time can turn out to be a health hazard as these infections can be spread from one kid to another easily.
Dr. Naresh Bathla advices against early morning walks and outdoor activities in such extreme cold weather. He says that people should avoid such activity especially in the early morning hours of the day when temperatures are relatively lower as compared to the rest of the day. He also adds that, even in the later hours of the day, around 4:00 PM-5:00PM such activities must be avoided. If one wishes to do such activities it is better to do it around 10:00AM in harsh winters.
The doctor says that, the pollution has got worse shattering many previous records. The combination of winters and rising pollution is very hazardous to the health and have very bad effect on lungs. This increases the risk of respiratory diseases especially in young children, elderly and asthma patients.
Dr Bathla says that heaters used alone make the air dry, which is not good for the health, he says that if one uses a heater, they also must use a humidifier along with it so that the air does not get too dry and the humidity in the air remains in the healthy range.
Dr. Naresh Bathla says, that it is better if school children can be given a lighter hand and exempted from attending schools. He adds, if necessary, then online classes might be an alternative. He emphasis that it is more important for primary school children to stay safe and tucked away from the harsh winter weather. But even if the kids have to go to school, then they must take appropriate precautions and ensure that they are resistant to the winters cold effect.
Important precautionary measures:
1. Cover nose and mouth properly to prevent cold air inhalations
2. Layer of warm cloths to regulate body temperature
3. Wear gloves, caps and socks
4. Take proper and healthy diet
5. Don’t immediately rush outside, give body some time to adjust to the temperature change from indoor to outdoor.