The Chittoor District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) K. Koteswari said that from April till May 24, out of 61 deaths reportedly due to sunstroke, only two were considered due to sun-stroke.
Speaking to The Hindu, Dr. Koteswari rejected the reports that over 17 deaths took place in Chittoor District due to sunstroke during the last two days. "The Department will take into consideration the death of the old people and farm laborers liberally as per the instructions of the Government," she said.
The DMHO took part in the video conference with Health Minister Kamineni Srinivas here. District TB Officer Venkata Prasad, and Project Officer (Infectious diseases surveillance) Ravinder Reddy were also present.
Dr. Prasad said that an appeal was made to the popular commercial establishments and voluntary organisations to set up "Chalivendrams" (drinking water facility) at public places. All the municipalities were instructed ro undertake awareness campaigns through public address system regarding precautions to protect from summer heat.
Meanwhile, a fresh sun-stroke death was reported from Varadaiahpalem mandal in the district. The victim was a farm labourer.