Two Out of Eight Cold-Related Patients in South Jeolla Die
All Patients Confirmed to Be Elderly Aged 65 or Older
Full-Scale Cold Wave Response for Elderly Living Alone and Vulnerable Groups
It has been reported that deaths caused by cold-related illnesses have occurred one after another in South Jeolla Province this winter. The South Jeolla Provincial Government has urged the elderly to strengthen their health management during the winter season.
According to the 2025-2026 season emergency room surveillance system for cold-related illnesses analyzed by the South Jeolla Provincial Government on December 29, a total of eight cases of cold-related illnesses were reported in the province from December 1 to December 27. Among them, unfortunately, two people lost their lives. All reported patients were confirmed to be elderly individuals aged 65 or older.
During the same period, 97 cold-related illness cases were reported nationwide, with 91 of them (93.8%) being hypothermia patients. By age group, the elderly aged 65 or older accounted for the largest proportion, with 66 cases (68.0%).
Cold-related illnesses occur when the body's ability to maintain temperature decreases due to prolonged exposure to cold. Typical examples include hypothermia, frostbite, and chilblains. In particular, the elderly are more vulnerable to cold waves because their ability to regulate body temperature is reduced and many suffer from chronic diseases, requiring special caution.
As a preventive measure, the South Jeolla Provincial Government recommended checking the temperature before going out and wearing several layers of thin clothing, such as thermal underwear, to maintain body temperature. It also emphasized minimizing body exposure by wearing hats, scarves, gloves, and masks, and paying attention to keeping warm indoors if heating is insufficient.
On this day, in response to the recent occurrence of cold-related illnesses, the province held an emergency meeting with all relevant departments, cities, counties, and related organizations participating. They decided to activate an emergency response system to strengthen protection for vulnerable groups such as elderly people living alone. On-site inspections and preventive activities will also be continuously carried out.
Jeong Gwangseon, Director of Health and Welfare at the South Jeolla Provincial Government, said, "We ask families, caregivers, and the local community to regularly check on neighbors vulnerable to cold, such as elderly people living alone and dementia patients, and to pay close attention to ensure they are not exposed to cold waves for extended periods."
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