Heatwave Causes Surge in Heat-Related Illnesses, Death Toll Rises to 13

Due to the ongoing heatwave, the number of heat-related illnesses this year has approached a critical situation, nearing 2,800 cases.

According to data released by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) on the 30th, a total of 126 cases of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, were reported the previous day across more than 510 emergency rooms nationwide. Among these, one person was confirmed to have died in Seo-gu, Incheon.

The KDCA has been monitoring heat-related illnesses since May 15 of this year. As of the previous day, the cumulative number of heat-related illnesses reached 2,768, with 13 reported deaths.

The cumulative number of heat-related illnesses is 2,768, and the death toll stands at 13.

Particularly concerning is that, with the recent continuous heat, over 100 patients have been reported daily for eight consecutive days since the 22nd.

Comparing this to the previous year during the same period highlights the severity of the situation.

From May 20 of last year, a total of 1,059 cases of heat-related illnesses were reported, whereas this year, the number increased to 2,752, a rise of approximately 2.6 times.

The number of deaths has also surged more than threefold from 4 during the same period last year to 13 this year.

Risks and Main Occurrences of Heat-Related Illnesses

Heat-related illness is an acute condition that occurs due to exposure to high temperatures, presenting symptoms such as headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, and fatigue.

If appropriate actions are not taken, consciousness may decline, and life may be at risk, necessitating special precaution.

Among the heat-related illnesses reported this year, heat exhaustion accounted for the largest percentage at 60.4%, followed by heat stroke at 16.6%, heat cramps at 13.5%, and heat syncope at 8.0%.

Heat stroke, in particular, is a dangerous condition in which the body's thermoregulation center loses its function, and sweat secretion is impaired, leading to a continuous rise in body temperature. It is presumed that the majority of heat-related fatalities in the country are due to heat stroke.

By age group, individuals aged 65 and over accounted for 32.0% of the total, identifying them as the most vulnerable group.

During heatwaves, it is advisable for the elderly to refrain from outdoor activities and stay in cool indoor environments.

Examining the locations where incidents occurred, outdoor workplaces accounted for 31.9%, followed by roadsides at 13.0% and fields at 12.0%, indicating that most cases occurred in outdoor environments.

To prevent heat-related illnesses during heatwaves, it is essential to drink water frequently even if you do not feel thirsty, reduce outdoor activities as much as possible, and avoid strenuous exertion. Additionally, wearing loose and lightweight clothing can help in regulating body temperature.

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