The end of the rainy season has led to a nationwide heat wave, resulting in an additional death from heat-related illness.
Following a pattern observed last year, health authorities have urged the public to limit outdoor activities and adhere to health guidelines as cases surge after the rainy season.
According to Yonhap News and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, from May 15 to July 27, when the heat-related illness emergency room surveillance system was activated, a total of 1,482 cases were reported, with the death toll rising from 8 to 9.
The latest victim was a 65-year-old woman residing in Gangneung, Gangwon Province.
Most heat-related illnesses occurred outdoors, with 81.8% of cases reported in outdoor settings. The most common locations included workplaces (26.2%), followed by rice paddies and fields (15.9%) and roadsides (12.4%).
The elderly have been particularly affected, with individuals aged 65 and older accounting for 30.2% of all heat-related cases.
The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency has emphasized the need for special attention for vulnerable groups, including outdoor workers and the elderly. It highlighted that seniors, individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, children, and those with underlying health conditions are especially susceptible to heat, urging them to strictly follow preventive measures tailored to their health status.
Additionally, the agency advised elderly individuals and those living alone to actively use cooling devices and heat relief centers, and for family and neighbors to frequently check on their well-being. It also recommended that individuals with underlying health conditions ensure adequate hydration and consult healthcare professionals about their medications.
The agency noted that a similar spike in heat-related illnesses was observed last year after heavy rainfall, and with the current heat wave expected to intensify following the end of the rainy season, the number of cases may continue to rise due to higher-than-average temperatures forecasted.
Im Seung-kwan, head of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, urged the public to rigorously follow health guidelines in preparation for the heat and to frequently check on the health of vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, according to Yonhap News.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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