Victoria Minister for Health David Davis

Heat Health Alerts Provide Timely Advice

Victor P Taffa

Victoria’s heat health alert system will be put to the test again this summer, with January the month most likely to have the most days of extreme temperatures, Health Minister David Davis said today.

“Already this month, one Statewide heat health alert has been issued to allow the health and aged care sector, emergency services and local government authorities to prepare for extreme temperatures.” Mr. Davis said.

“And chances are there will be more alerts issued before the end of summer.”

“An analysis of the Victorian Heat Health Information Surveillance System from the last two summers confirms that there is a statistically significant increase in heat-related health service activity in Melbourne, above expected normal levels, within the first 24 hours of an extreme heat event.”

“The analysis also shows that the increase in activity continues to grow if an extreme heat event continues beyond the first 24 hours.”

“The analysis of hospital emergency department data shows that older people aged 65 years or more and people living alone at home are more likely to present to an emergency department with a heat-related diagnosis than younger people or people living in other types of accommodation, including aged care and other supported care facilities.”

“People aged 65 years or more are four times more likely to present to an emergency department with heat-related conditions than younger people. People living alone in their own home are one and a half times more likely to present to an ED with heat-related conditions than people who do not live alone or live in other types of accommodation.” Mr. Davis said.

“It is important for all Victorians to prepare for hot weather so that they know how to stay healthy in the heat.”

 “As has been well documented in the past, heat-related illness can affect anybody and a range of actions should be taken to minimise the potential harm extreme heat can cause.”

“In hot weather community members should take care of themselves and check on older, sick and frail relatives, friends and neighbours who may need help coping with the heat.”

Victorians should use the following practical advice to help prevent heat-related illnesses:

• Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty (if your doctor normally limits your fluids, check how much to drink during hot weather);
• Keep yourself cool by using wet towels on your arms or neck, putting your feet in cool water and taking cool (not cold) showers;
• Spend as much time as possible in cool or air-conditioned buildings (for example, shopping centres, libraries, cinemas or community centres);
• Block out the sun during the day by closing curtains and blinds. Open windows when there is a cool breeze;
• Do not leave children, adults or animals in parked vehicles;
• Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day. If you must go out, stay in the shade and take plenty of water with you. Wear a hat and light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing;
• Eat smaller meals more often and eat cold meals such as salads. Make sure food that needs refrigeration is properly stored;
• Avoid strenuous activity like sport, home improvements and gardening;  
• Listen and watch out for news reports that provide more information during a heatwave.

The body normally sweats to cool down but sometimes sweating is not enough and rising body temperature can lead to heat stress.

Mr. Davis said the effects of the heat can range from mild conditions such as a rash or cramps to very serious conditions such as heat stroke – which can kill. Importantly, heat may worsen the condition of someone who already has a medical condition such as heart disease.

“Those most at risk are people over 65 years, particularly those living alone, people who are unwell, especially with heart or kidney disease and people who have a disability or mental illness.” Mr. Davis said.

“Elderly people are more prone to heat stress than younger people because their body may not adjust well to sudden temperature change. They are more likely to have a chronic medical condition and to be taking medication that may interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature.”

Detailed information and communication resources about heat-related illness can be found at: http://www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/heatwave

For health information regarding heat-related illness contact NURSE-ON-CALL 1300 60 60 24.