Published on: 2026-06-06
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Summer has long ceased to be simply a time for vacations, sun, and walks. More and more often, the heat becomes a threat to health. Extremely high temperatures are already called one of the most underestimated causes of mortality and health deterioration among populations worldwide.
Due to climate change, periods of intense heat are becoming longer, occurring more frequently, and becoming more severe. And it’s not just about discomfort. Heat overloads hospitals, puts stress on energy systems, worsens the condition of people with chronic illnesses, and in the most severe cases can cost lives.
Although the heat affects everyone, far from everyone is in the same position. Especially vulnerable are the elderly, young children, pregnant women, people with chronic diseases, and those with limited mobility. Also at risk are those who work outdoors, engage in sports, travel, or attend mass events. More severely affected are people living in poor housing conditions, migrants, refugees, and those with limited access to essential services.
Therefore, the World Health Organization calls to view the heat not as a seasonal inconvenience, but as a serious challenge to the public health system.
The WHO European Regional Office will present updated guidance on developing heat health action plans on June 11. These plans help countries and cities prepare in advance for periods of extreme temperatures: to warn the population, coordinate the work of services, reduce the burden on hospitals, and protect the most vulnerable people.
In many countries, such plans are already in place and help reduce the consequences of heat. But where such a system does not exist, every new temperature record can turn into additional risks for people and healthcare systems.
However, protection from the heat is possible not only at the state level – much also depends on our daily habits.
What does WHO recommend?
First of all, avoid staying in the sun during the hottest hours of the day and, if possible, shift physical activity to the morning or evening. It is important to spend several hours in a cool room and never leave children, elderly people, or pets in a closed car.
The house should be aired regularly: close the curtains during the day, ventilate the rooms at night, and, if possible, reduce the use of household appliances that emit heat.
Nevertheless, it is important to avoid dehydration – regularly drink water, wear light clothing, and avoid excessive sugary, alcoholic, and caffeine-containing drinks.
And one more piece of advice that may seem simple but can save a life: keep in touch with each other. On hot days, it is especially important to call elderly relatives, neighbors, or friends who live alone.
If unusual symptoms appear – severe weakness, confusion, high temperature, burning hot skin, or convulsions – it is necessary to seek medical help immediately.
As part of the #HoldYourHeadCool campaign, the World Health Organization reminds us: adapting to heat is no longer a matter of comfort, but a matter of health and safety. The sooner we start changing habits and preparing our cities and healthcare systems for new climatic conditions, the better the chances of saving the most important thing — human lives. Summer remains a time of joy. But today it requires a little more attention and preparation than before.
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