Important!
This article is based on official guidance published by Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Health in 2019. In 2025, the country is again facing temperatures above +40 °C, and these recommendations remain highly relevant today.
Ministry of Health issues guidance on heat protection
Yesterday, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Health published detailed recommendations on its website about how to cope with extreme summer heat. The memo was timed to coincide with the rise of temperatures above +30 °C. Now the “chilla” — the forty hottest days of summer — has just begun or is now underway.
Heat up to +50 °C is not uncommon
The arrival of summer — especially during chilla — causes significant discomfort for the population. In several regions of our sunny country, temperatures rise sharply. In the south, they can reach +45 to +50 °C.
The most important thing: protect your head
The Ministry of Health emphasizes the importance of protecting the head from the sun.
It is important to understand that during extreme heat, when the head is not covered, it heats up, and warm blood circulates throughout the body. As a result:
- body temperature rises,
- skin turns red,
- weakness appears,
- breathing and heart rate increase,
- the heart beats faster,
- headache and dizziness occur,
- nausea and vomiting may begin,
- and in some cases, fainting may happen.
Drink water and eat light food
Doctors advise drinking more water during hot weather — not soda or nectar drinks, but regular drinking water.
They also recommend avoiding fatty meat dishes and eating light, easily digestible foods — especially fruits and vegetables, which also support normal body function.
Be cautious with street drinks
It is advised not to consume homemade sherbets, ayran or other cold drinks sold in parks and on the streets during summer. These drinks:
- often sit in the sun all day,
- lack proper labeling or production dates,
- and may pose a health risk, potentially causing food poisoning.
Natural, loose-fitting clothing
It is recommended to wear loose clothing made of natural fabrics, because it:
- allows the skin to breathe,
- and prevents a sharp rise in body temperature.
Wearing a hat is also important in hot weather.
Avoid going outside at midday
Doctors advise not going outside during midday hours.
Direct sunlight is strongest between 12:00 and 16:00, so it’s best to stay indoors.
If you must go out, protect exposed areas of the body from the sun.
Where to get medical help in extreme heat
If necessary, medical help can be obtained through:
- The Republican Scientific Center for Emergency Medical Aid,
- Its regional branches,
- District and city departments,
- And ambulance services.
Importantly, emergency care is provided regardless of residence registration or citizenship — foreigners can also request help.
How do you cope with the heat?
How do you deal with the summer heat in Uzbekistan? Share your tips.