Putting Victoria’s heat health alert system to the test

17 January 2012

Victoria's heat health alert system will be put to the test again this summer, with January the month most likely to have the most days of extreme temperatures.

"Already this month, one statewide heat health alert has been issued to allow the health and aged care sector, emergency services and local government authorities to prepare for extreme temperatures," Health Minister David Davis said.

"An analysis of the Victorian Heat Health Information Surveillance System from the last two summers confirms that there is a statistically significant increase in heat-related health service activity in Melbourne, above expected normal levels, within the first 24 hours of an extreme heat event.”

The Population Health Impacts of Heat report also shows that the increase in activity continues to grow if an extreme heat event continues beyond the first 24 hours.

"Those most at risk are people over 65 years, particularly those living alone, people who are unwell, especially with heart or kidney disease and people who have a disability or mental illness," Mr Davis said.

Hospital emergency department data shows that older people aged 65 years or more and people living alone at home are more likely to present to an emergency department with a heat-related diagnosis than younger people or people living in other types of accommodation, including aged care and other supported care facilities.

The effects of the heat can range from mild conditions such as a rash or cramps to very serious conditions such as heat stroke – which can kill.

Importantly, heat may worsen the condition of someone who already has a medical condition such as heart disease.

Further information

Detailed information and resources about heat-related illness can be found on the department’s Environmental health website.

For health information regarding heat-related illness, visit the Better Health Channel or contact NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24.