Gwangju City Urges Compliance with Heat Illness Prevention Health Guidelines in Preparation for Heatwave

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Park Seon-gang] Gwangju Metropolitan City urged adherence to health guidelines to prevent heat-related illnesses as the heatwave continues following the end of the rainy season on the 21st.

Heat-related illnesses are acute conditions caused by heat exposure, showing symptoms such as headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, fatigue, and decreased consciousness when exposed to hot environments for extended periods. If left untreated, these illnesses can be life-threatening. Representative conditions include heat exhaustion (ilsabyeong) and heatstroke.

Accordingly, Gwangju City operates a "Heat-Related Illness Emergency Room Surveillance System" with 24 emergency medical institutions daily. So far this year, 31 cases of heat-related illnesses have been reported (4 heatstroke, 20 heat exhaustion, 1 heat syncope, 6 heat cramps).

Following health guidelines alone can prevent health damage, so it is advised to reduce activities during the afternoon hours from 12 PM to 5 PM. Special attention is needed to ensure that children and the elderly are not left alone in closed indoor spaces such as homes or cars.

Also, it is important to drink water regularly even if you do not feel thirsty. When going outside, it is recommended to block sunlight with parasols or hats and wear loose, light-colored, and lightweight clothing.

During the hottest times of the day, individuals should monitor their health condition and adjust their activity intensity by taking breaks as needed.

Furthermore, wearing masks due to the spread of COVID-19 can increase heart rate, respiratory rate, and perceived temperature, placing a burden on the body. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid going out if possible or to maintain sufficient distance (2 meters) from others and briefly remove the mask to rest.

Im Jin-seok, Director of the City Health Policy Division, stated, "Vulnerable groups such as those living in poor housing conditions, the elderly, children, and patients who have difficulty moving or require care may be more susceptible to heatwaves, so special caution is necessary." He added, "We hope citizens follow the heatwave health guidelines to have a healthy summer."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.