Israeli President Herzog Urges Caution Amid Severe Heatwave, Medical Experts Warn of Heatstroke Risks

Israeli President Isaac Herzog addressed the country regarding the ongoing severe heatwave, urging citizens to follow emergency guidelines carefully. He emphasized the need for heightened responsibility, especially after last year's wildfires, and called for vigilance to prevent fires and protect lives, nature, and national security.

Dr. Salah Hatib, head of the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Department at Poriya Medical Center, also issued safety tips amid the heatwave. Israel is currently experiencing extreme heat conditions that pose significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, chronically ill patients, outdoor workers, and athletes.

Heatstroke, a critical medical emergency characterized by a core body temperature exceeding 40 degrees Celsius and neurological impairment, requires immediate treatment to prevent fatal outcomes. There are two main types: classic heatstroke, affecting mainly the elderly and chronically ill during heatwaves, and exertional heatstroke, occurring in individuals performing intense physical activity outdoors. Without prompt care, mortality rates can reach approximately 60%.

Preventive measures recommended include staying in air-conditioned or shaded areas between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., drinking water regularly even without thirst, avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat, cooling the body with water, and never leaving children or others in closed vehicles. Warning signs of heatstroke include confusion, seizures, severe headache, vomiting, disorientation, hot dry skin, and body temperature above 40 degrees Celsius.

In suspected cases, immediate action involves moving the person to a cool place, cooling the body with water and fans, applying cold compresses to key areas, and avoiding medications like paracetamol or aspirin, which are ineffective and potentially harmful. The goal is to reduce body temperature below 39 degrees Celsius within 30 minutes and seek urgent medical assistance. Prevention remains the most effective strategy to mitigate heat-related dangers and save lives.