57% of Heat Illness Cases Occur in 'Late July to Early August'... Health Guidelines Must Be Followed

Most of the Country Under Heatwave Alerts... 질병청 "Beware of Heat-Related Illnesses"

On the 25th, when heatwave warnings were issued in most regions nationwide, citizens in downtown Seoul were seen walking while using parasols. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] As heatwave warnings have been issued for most regions nationwide, the government emphasized guidelines to prevent heat-related illnesses.

On the 27th, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) urged the public to follow health guidelines, warning that the number of heat-related illness cases may increase due to the forecasted daily maximum apparent temperature of 33 to 35°C, indicating very hot conditions.

Heat-related illnesses are acute conditions caused by heat, with heatstroke and heat exhaustion being representative examples. Prolonged exposure to hot environments can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, muscle cramps, fatigue, and decreased consciousness, and if left untreated, can be life-threatening.

Most heat-related illnesses occur from late July to early August, as shown by last year’s emergency room surveillance system results, which reported that 57% of all patients occurred between July 20 and August 10.

From May 20 to the 25th of this month, 885 heat-related illness cases were reported through the emergency room surveillance system, with 7 deaths among them. This represents a 22.1% (160 cases) increase compared to the same period last year.

Reported patients were mainly male (78.8%), outdoors (81.6%), during daytime hours from 12 PM to 5 PM (48.9%), and elderly aged 65 and above (28.5%).

The KDCA emphasized that health damage caused by heatwaves is preventable, so it is important to follow health guidelines such as drinking water frequently and resting during the hottest hours.

During heatwaves, it is necessary to hydrate regularly before feeling thirsty. Alcohol raises body temperature, and beverages with high caffeine content like coffee or carbonated drinks can cause dehydration due to their diuretic effect, so consuming them excessively is not recommended.

Reducing activities during high-risk hours for heat-related illnesses (12 PM to 5 PM) is advised, and if unavoidable, wearing wide-brimmed hats or bright, loose clothing can help prevent heat-related illnesses.

People with underlying conditions or those vulnerable to heat should be especially cautious. Individuals with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or stroke may experience worsening symptoms due to heat. Therefore, they should avoid prolonged heat exposure, maintain their existing treatments, and reduce activity intensity compared to usual. Children and elderly with limited mobility should not be left alone in cars or homes, and neighbors or relatives should be asked to provide protection when going out.

If early symptoms such as dizziness, headache, or nausea appear, stop activities immediately and move to a cool place to rest. If a heat-related illness occurs, move the patient to a cool location immediately and lower their body temperature by wiping with a wet towel, water, or ice. If symptoms do not improve, visit a medical institution. In cases of unconsciousness, call 119 promptly and do not force the patient to drink fluids due to the risk of choking.

Baek Kyung-ran, head of the KDCA, stated, "With the onset of the intense heat season and heatwave warnings in effect, special caution is needed during outdoor activities and work to prevent heat-related illnesses," adding, "To prevent heat-related illnesses, it is necessary to avoid prolonged outdoor activities, drink plenty of water, and take regular breaks while following health guidelines."

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