22 December 2008

Take care in sun over summer holidays

NSW Minister for Health John Della Bosca today reminded people to take extra care in the sun over the summer holidays.

“Heat–related illness is a major issue, with over 1000 deaths annually attributable to heat in Australia,” Mr Della Bosca said.

“Heat-related illness can range from mild conditions such as rash or cramps to very serious medical emergencies such as heat stroke.

“The rate of heart attacks also increases during extreme hot weather as the heart has to work harder during these times.”

While everyone is at risk of heat-related illness, people at greatest risk are:

• Those over 65 years of age
• Babies and young children
• People who are unwell – especially those with high blood pressure or heart disease
• People who are exposed to high temperatures in their homes, at work or at an event such as a sports carnival or festival.
• People on medications that interfere with the body’s ability to cool it self, making them more susceptible to heat-related illness.

Mr Della Bosca said simple precautions were the most effective way to minimise the risk of heat-related illnesses.

“Drinking plenty of water, keeping out of the sun and keeping cool are the best ways to avoid heat-related illness.

“It’s also important that people check on the elderly members of their family at least twice a day during the hot weather as it is this group who are most vulnerable to the effects of the heat,” the Minister added.

More information about heat-related illness and preventing illness during hot weather can be found on the NSW Department of Health’s website,

http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/factsheets/environmental/index.asp.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au