▲ Patient numbers decreased, but deaths did not decrease significantly

Although the number of heat-related illness patients recorded in this year's heat illness surveillance system significantly decreased compared to the same period last year, the number of deaths remained at a relatively high level. This meant that it was difficult to assess the risk of heat wave damage this year based solely on the scale of patient occurrence.

[Provided by Yonhapnews]

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, from May 15 to July 29 this year, a total of 1,638 heat-related illness patients were recorded. Among them, 12 died. During the same period last year, there were 2,779 heat-related illness patients and 16 deaths.

This year's patient count reached only about 59% of last year's figure, but deaths reached 75%. With the patient scale reduced yet more fatal cases occurring relatively frequently, analysis suggested that the risk of severe heat-related illness has increased, particularly among vulnerable populations.

The recent situation was especially serious. Heat-related deaths this year occurred from the first day of the surveillance system's operation, with no additional deaths for a while, but recently 6 people died within four days, accounting for half of the total deaths.

▲ Double high-pressure system with prolonged heat wave…risk continues until early August

Heat wave risks were likely to continue for some time. The so-called "double high-pressure" structure, where the North Pacific high-pressure system and Tibetan high-pressure system simultaneously cover South Korea, was expected to maintain conditions bringing in hot and humid air combined with strong sunlight.

The Korea Meteorological Administration predicted that the entire nation would be mostly clear from August 2-9 with daytime temperatures higher than normal. If the pressure system does not change significantly, strong intense solar radiation during midday combined with high humidity was likely to continue, pushing up the perceived temperature.

Warning signs also continued in the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's heat-related illness patient occurrence forecast. As of July 30, the national heat-related illness risk level was predicted to reach stage 4, the highest level, through August 2.

Stage 4 refers to a level where heat-related illnesses are expected to occur in most areas with significant damage anticipated. Particularly, North Gyeongsang Province is expected to maintain stage 4 from July 30 to August 2, and South Gyeongsang Province, Busan, Daegu, and Ulsan are also expected to reach the highest stage for four days starting July 31.

▲ Reduce outdoor activities and drink water frequently…workplace breaks are also essential

Since 80.1% of this year's heat-related illness patients occurred outdoors, management of outdoor activities and work was identified as a key variable as the heat wave persists. In particular, with 26.9% of patients occurring in workplaces, systematic rest measures for field workers were necessary on days when heat wave advisories are issued.

Outdoors, it was important to wear light-colored, loose clothing and block sunlight using parasols or hats. Even without feeling thirsty, water should be consumed regularly to prevent dehydration, and alcohol and caffeinated beverages that can cause dehydration should be avoided.

When heat wave advisories are issued, outdoor workers must take regular rest breaks of at least 10-15 minutes every hour. Since individual worker caution has limitations, business owners must implement active safety measures such as adjusting work hours and securing sufficient rest areas.

▲ If headaches or dizziness occur, immediately lower body temperature

Heat-related illness can progress rapidly to severe stages if initial response is delayed, making it important to recognize symptoms early. If dizziness, headaches, vomiting, or severe fatigue appear, one must immediately move to a cool location and lower body temperature.

If consciousness deteriorates or symptoms are severe, rather than enduring with simple rest, medical institutions should be contacted promptly. Particularly, avoid forcing unconscious patients to drink water or other actions, and immediately request emergency assistance.

In this heat wave situation, how many severe cases lead to death is more important than the number of patient occurrences. As the heat wave persists, prevention and rapid response systems must be strengthened, particularly for vulnerable populations including elderly people, those with chronic diseases, and outdoor workers.