Record-breaking summer, health threats and preventive measures

Increasing extreme temperatures, a threat to public health during the summer

As temperatures rise during the summer months, experts warn of serious public health risks associated with exposure to extreme heat and the illnesses that can occur during this period. In the US and Europe, where temperatures are reaching over 35 degrees Celsius, health authorities have issued warnings to citizens, while the situation is expected to be challenging for our country as well.

High heat can cause severe heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms of heatstroke include rapid breathing, confusion, seizures, and nausea. Without immediate treatment, it can lead to permanent organ damage and even death.

High temperatures are often combined with high humidity, making it more difficult for the body to naturally cool itself through sweating, a phenomenon that is worsening with climate change.

Most at-risk groups

Health experts warn that those particularly at risk are:

The elderly

Babies and young children

People with chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart and lung diseases

Workers in open environments

Socially isolated people and those in difficult economic circumstances

Furthermore, most heat-related deaths occur in early summer, due to the body's lack of acclimatization.

Other health and environmental hazards

Extreme heat is not limited to its direct effects on the body. It affects the spread of infectious diseases, as it encourages the growth of bacteria and toxic algae in water sources, increasing the risk of diseases such as cholera. In addition, mosquitoes that carry tropical diseases such as dengue, Zika and West Nile fever are expanding their habitat in areas of the Balkans.

In Albania, cases of West Nile fever were recorded in August 2024, raising concerns about the further spread of this disease during heat waves. Other insect-borne diseases, which are spreading due to climate change, are also of concern in the region.

The effects of heat also include damage to agricultural crops, damage to road infrastructure, worsening air pollution due to forest fires, and negative impacts on mental health.

How to protect ourselves?

Health authorities recommend:

Stay in cool environments and stay hydrated constantly

Avoid excessive physical activity during the hottest hours of the day

Provide protection against mosquitoes and insects, using repellents and window protection

Be careful with water and food hygiene to avoid infections

Employers must provide sufficient breaks and water for their workers, especially those working outdoors.

Staying informed and following official warnings is vital.

Several cities in the US and Europe have opened public cooling centers and provided free air-conditioned transportation to help residents during heat waves.

Conclusion: As summers become hotter and climate change increases the frequency of heat waves, preparation and prevention are more important than ever. Attention to the most vulnerable groups and public awareness are key to avoiding tragic consequences during the summer months.