The heat and humidity of Missouri summers are a traditional threat to small children, the elderly and the chronically ill, but they can also take their toll on young, healthy people, state health officials warned.
Among the 10 Missourians who died last year from heat-related causes, only three were age 65 or older. Seven were 25 to 64 years of age.
As temperatures and humidity increase, Missourians need to be cautious about heat-related illness. This reminder comes ahead of Missouri Summer Weather Safety Week, set for June 21 through 27.
“High temperatures and humidity can combine to cause illness and even death, often with little warning,” said Margaret Donnelly, director of the Department of Health and Senior Services. “We have to protect ourselves and take care of those who are more vulnerable to heat, such as senior adults and young children. Summer Weather Safety Week gives us the ideal opportunity to get people’s attention early, before it gets dangerously hot, and remind them to start taking precautions.”
Between 2000 and 2008, 203 Missourians died from heat-related causes. The elderly and the chronically ill are often more vulnerable because they perspire less and are more likely to be taking medications that can impair the body’s response to heat.
Those medications include antihistamines, heart drugs, over-the-counter sleeping pills, antidepressants, antipsychotics, major tranquilizers and some medications for Parkinson’s disease. People should check with their doctor or pharmacist to find out if their medications make them more sensitive to heat.
Seniors on fixed incomes often do not have air conditioning or feel they cannot afford the expense of running it. Since many senior citizens live alone, Missourians should check on elderly family members and neighbors regularly to be sure they are not suffering from the effects of the heat.
Donnelly urged Missourians to call the state’s toll-free abuse and neglect hotline at 800-392-0210 to report any senior adults or persons with disabilities suffering from heat and needing assistance.
Children are also sensitive to heat. They need to drink plenty of fluids during hot weather. Infants and young children should never be left unattended in hot environments, especially cars, even if they are running with the air conditioner on. A car’s interior takes only a few minutes to reach oven-like temperatures, putting anyone left inside at risk of overheating.
Children also should not be allowed to play in or around cars. Small children can quickly be trapped because they are not big enough to open the door or roll down a window to escape. Older children are also at risk if they fall asleep in a hot vehicle or play or hide in the trunk of a car.
“Infants and young children rely on adults to regulate their environments and provide adequate liquids,” Donnelly said. “Without adult help and encouragement, small children often do not drink as much liquid as they should and they can become dehydrated very quickly.”
For warning signs for heat-related illness and ways to treat the heat, visit www.dhss.mo.gov/Hyperthermia/HeatPrecautions.html.