Severe Cold Across the Country... This Disease Has Increased Significantly This Year

[Asia Economy Reporter Byun Seon-jin] As the severe cold continues this winter, cases of cold-related illnesses such as hypothermia, frostbite, and chilblains are also increasing.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency on the 18th, this year’s Cold-Related Illness Emergency Room Surveillance System reported a total of 48 cold-related illness cases from the beginning of this month through the 14th. This is 60% more than the 30 cases reported during the same period last year. This increase is attributed to the sharp drop in temperature and strong winds causing a significant decrease in the perceived temperature. Notably, no deaths from cold-related illnesses were reported during the same period last year, but this year, there have been four suspected deaths due to cold-related illnesses.

More than half (52%) of the reported patients were elderly aged 65 or older, and hypothermia accounted for 83% of the symptoms. With forecasts predicting even colder cold waves nationwide for the time being, extra caution regarding cold-related illnesses is necessary. When temperatures suddenly drop and cold waves hit, the body’s adaptability decreases, making people more vulnerable to cold-related illnesses. Therefore, outdoor activities should be minimized, and when going outside, hats, scarves, gloves, and other protective gear should be used to prepare thoroughly.

Elderly people and children are more vulnerable to maintaining body temperature than adults and require special attention. Even when staying indoors without proper heating, caution against cold-related illnesses is necessary. People with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension may experience worsening symptoms like a sudden rise in blood pressure due to rapid temperature changes, so they should avoid sudden exposure to cold and excessive physical activity.

Additionally, drinking alcohol can cause body heat to rise and then drop rapidly, making it difficult to feel the cold, so excessive drinking should be avoided. The Disease Control and Prevention Agency emphasized, “Cold-related illnesses can be prevented through appropriate measures in advance, so it is important to follow health guidelines for cold wave preparedness,” and “special attention is needed for vulnerable groups such as homeless people and elderly living alone who are susceptible to cold waves.”

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