The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a health advisory for individuals aged 65 and above due to a potential shift in weather conditions. Experts suggest that the drop in temperatures may pose challenges for this particular age group.
A cold health alert (CHA) has been activated by the UKHSA for the regions of Yorkshire and Humber, North West, and North East in England until November 22. The rest of England is currently under a lower-level yellow alert.
The UKHSA highlighted that the anticipated low temperatures could lead to an upsurge in healthcare utilization among vulnerable demographics. This weather pattern presents an elevated health risk for individuals aged 65 and older, those with existing health issues like respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, and other vulnerable groups such as individuals living on the streets.
Dr. Agostinho Sousa, the head of extreme events and health protection at the UKHSA, emphasized the importance of checking on vulnerable individuals known to us during this cold period. He stressed that the forecasted temperatures could have severe health implications, increasing the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory infections, especially for those over 65 and individuals with pre-existing health concerns.
Recent temperature drops in the UK have resulted in daytime highs ranging from five to 10 degrees Celsius for many regions in the upcoming days. The Met Office has issued yellow alerts for severe weather conditions including rain, sleet, snow, and ice in Scotland and northern England today (November 18).
As part of the weather health alert system established by the UKHSA and the Met Office, an amber cold health alert signifies an extended period where cold weather impacts the healthcare system significantly, potentially endangering the broader population and prompting the need for a coordinated response across various sectors.
The Met Office may issue national severe weather warnings like snow and ice on short notice to enable appropriate precautions.
Guidance from the UKHSA recommends maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature during cold weather to safeguard health, particularly for individuals with medical conditions or advanced age.
Implementing simple adjustments can aid in keeping both individuals and homes warm during the cold spell.