Naju City Launches Emergency Room Surveillance System for Cold-Related Illnesses in Preparation for Winter Cold Waves

Operation in Cooperation with Emergency Medical Institutions Through February

Naju City in South Jeolla Province has launched a winter health management response through February to detect cold-related illnesses early and minimize health damage to citizens caused by cold waves during the winter season.

On January 10, Naju City announced that it is operating a cold-related illness surveillance system in cooperation with local emergency medical institutions to prepare for sudden drops in winter temperatures, and is continuously monitoring the status of patients visiting emergency rooms.

Cold-related illnesses are conditions that occur when a person is exposed to cold environments for extended periods, with hypothermia and frostbite being the most common examples. The risk of these illnesses increases significantly when cold waves persist or temperatures drop suddenly.

Children, the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, and dementia patients are especially vulnerable, as their ability to recognize and respond to changes in body temperature is relatively low, requiring extra caution.

The city plans to use the data collected through emergency room surveillance as a basis for establishing response and prevention measures against cold waves during winter and will maintain a rapid response system according to the patterns of cold-related illness occurrences.

To prevent cold-related illnesses in winter, it is important to check weather information and the perceived temperature before going outdoors, and to refrain from outdoor activities as much as possible when cold wave advisories are issued.

When going outside, it is essential to dress in layers and wear gloves, scarves, and hats to maintain body temperature. Indoors, basic health management such as maintaining an appropriate indoor temperature, doing light indoor exercises, and drinking enough water is important.

Additionally, since the risk of falls is high on icy roads during winter, extra caution is required when walking.

Kang Yonggon, Director of the Naju City Public Health Center, stated, "Cold-related illnesses can occur to anyone when exposed to sudden cold," and emphasized, "It is especially important for caregivers to pay close attention and provide care to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, and dementia patients."