Uiseong County Launches "Heat-related Illness Surveillance System" to Combat Summer Heat Waves

Participation of Public Health Center and Yeongnam Jeil Hospital Until September
Health Monitoring for Vulnerable Groups Also Implemented

Uiseong County in Gyeongbuk will fully implement the "Emergency Room Surveillance System for Heat-related Illnesses" from May 15 to September 30 in order to minimize health damage to residents caused by summer heat waves.

A view of Uiseong County Public Health Center, Gyeongbuk

This surveillance system is a nationwide, continuous monitoring system designed to establish a rapid response framework and track trends in patient occurrences across the country by reporting information on heat-related illness patients who visit emergency rooms to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency in real time.

In Uiseong County, the Public Health Center and Yeongnam Jeil Hospital are participating in the operation of the surveillance system. Starting in June, when the heat wave season begins in earnest, the county will also strengthen its public awareness campaigns on preventive measures for residents.

In particular, when a heat wave advisory is issued, tailored information and health monitoring will be provided for vulnerable groups, such as people with chronic diseases or dementia.

Heat-related illnesses can occur after prolonged exposure to high temperatures and manifest in various forms, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, fatigue, and decreased consciousness. These conditions can be especially dangerous for the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.

The county urged residents to strictly follow the three basic guidelines for coping with heat waves: drink plenty of water, block direct sunlight, and take sufficient rest.

Kim Jusu, the governor of Uiseong County, said, "Every year, the number of patients suffering from heat-related illnesses increases rapidly due to heat waves. For a healthy summer, I ask all residents to thoroughly observe preventive measures and pay special attention to vulnerable people around them."