Heat Illness Cases Near 300 Amid Early Summer Heat, 1.5 Times Last Year's Figures

South Korea is experiencing a significant increase in heat-related illnesses as early summer temperatures soar. As of June 16, the emergency room surveillance system has recorded nearly 300 cases since its activation on May 15. This number represents a 1.5-fold increase compared to the 192 cases reported during the same period last year.

The majority of those affected, 206 individuals or 69.4%, were male. Heat exhaustion was the most prevalent condition, accounting for 156 cases (52.5%). Other common ailments included heatstroke, with 60 cases (20.2%), and heat syncope, with 49 cases (16.5%). These acute conditions arise when the body's temperature regulation system is overwhelmed by prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

Cities like Daegu have seen daytime high temperatures reach 32 degrees Celsius, contributing to the surge in heat-related ailments. Health authorities emphasize that neglecting symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, muscle cramps, and fatigue can lead to life-threatening situations. The early onset and high number of cases underscore the severity of the current heatwave and the need for public awareness and preventative measures.