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GENEVA, 19th May (RHC) – The World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday urged health authorities in Europe to take action to avoid the undesirable effects of the extreme heat waves to come.
In a statement, the international organization recalled that over the past 50 years, almost 150,000 people have died in the so-called old continent due to high temperatures.
Such a weather situation can endanger the health of older adults, babies, people who work outdoors and the chronically ill.
“Heat can trigger exhaustion or heat stroke and aggravate existing conditions such as cardiovascular, respiratory and kidney diseases as well as mental health problems,” the WHO warned.
Experts advise “avoiding going out and strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day, staying in the shade, not leaving children or animals in parked vehicles, and staying in a well-ventilated area for two to three hours a day if necessary.
They also choose to wear light and loose clothing, take cool showers or baths, and drink water regularly while avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
In view of the coming heat waves, the WHO recommended the implementation of action plans that “include early warning and response systems for urban and non-urban environments”. (source: Latin Press).