The ongoing heatwave and soaring temperatures are taking a toll on public health, with authorities warning of potentially serious consequences without proper precautions.
Officials continue to stress the importance of hydration. Dr Anne Vergison from the Health Inspectorate reiterated that people should especially avoid sun exposure in the late afternoon and evening, stay in cool indoor areas, and protect themselves from direct sunlight.
Once temperatures begin to drop, proper home ventilation is advised. “Between 2 and 5–6am, and around 8am, everything should be closed again to try to retain as much ‘coolness’ as possible indoors. If you have shutters, lower them; curtains should be closed”, she said.
The heat has prompted a surge in last-minute purchases of air conditioning units and fans, as confirmed by staff at a large hardware store: “We sold pallet after pallet of air conditioners, and we also sold out various models of fans.”
At the hospital in Esch, fans are in use as the building is not air-conditioned. According to medical director Dr Romain Schockmel, fans are systematically distributed among patients. Some departments and floors on the south-facing side are more affected than those on the north.
Emergency department head Dr Patrick Nrecaj reports no sharp rise in patient numbers, but notes a change in severity:
“We have many patients as always, but they are sicker than usual. Particularly vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly – who make up the majority of our patients – are more sensitive to heat and dehydration. That’s why significantly more of them are coming in, also from retirement and care homes.”
Among younger people, sunburn remains the most common issue, according to Dr Vergison. For the elderly, excessive fluid loss – sometimes worsened by certain medications – can lead to dehydration and, in some cases, hospitalisation.
Health officials continue to urge caregivers to ensure that both children and older adults drink enough water, as they may not do so on their own.
