THL warns of health hazards as hot weather forecast

The National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) on Friday warned of serious health hazards, especially for older people and people suffering from long-term illnesses as high temperature and heat wave have been forecast for next few days in the country.

The THL also urged the people to take protective measures during the scorching heat.

During heat waves, it is best to avoid sunshine, hot areas and unnecessary physical strain, said the THL in a press release.

The authority also suggested to Drink enough water and remember to eat too, to avoid dehydration and low blood sodium caused by sweating.

Good ways to cool off include swimming, cool showers and cold wraps. Wearing light, breezy clothes and protecting from UV radiation from the sun could be helpful.

In order to prevent the health hazards of hot weather, it is important to try to keep indoor areas cool.

“You should cover any windows facing the sun during the day, for example with curtains or blinds. You should close your windows when it’s warmer outside than inside and then open the windows in the evening and at night once it gets cooler outside”, said THL Researcher Virpi Kollanus.

If the home gets hot easily, consider installing a portable air conditioner unit or air source heat pump may help the people, who are in a risk group.

A fan can also make people feel cooler if the air temperature is below 35 degrees. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, using a fan should be avoided in a common areas where more than one person is present.

If the temperature at home gets unbearably hot, people could spend time in a cool place like a shaded park or an air conditioned public building. But going to public spaces is forbidden if people have symptoms of a respiratory infection.

Everyone should take care of the well-being of their family and friends during heat waves. People are urged to be especially mindful of loved ones who are older, who suffer from underlying chronic diseases or whose functional capacity has deteriorated.

“It is a good idea to contact people in risk groups every day, for example by telephone or online. If necessary, help your loved ones protect themselves from the heat”, Kollanus added.

Heat, dehydration and low sodium levels can lead to heat illnesses such as heat exhaustion.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include intense thirst, excessive sweating or cool and clammy skin, weakness, headaches, dizziness, irritability and nausea.

In addition to the elderly, babies and small children in particular are vulnerable to symptoms related to hot weather. Heat stress can also exacerbate symptoms of long-term illnesses or severe acute illnesses.

“People with long-term illnesses should talk to their doctor in advance about how heat affects their illness or the medication used for its treatment”, said Kollanus.

People experiencing severe symptoms or if the symptoms of primary disease were asked to contact health care services.