COVID-19 and heat waves: new challenges for healthcare systems

This paper discusses concerns and interventions for heat wave and Covid-19 overlap as this pandemic continues into summer 2021. The high-risk groups for heat-related health problems as well as for high-risk COVID-19 groups overlap considerably (elderly with pre-existing health conditions). Health care facilities will again be challenged by Covid-19 during heat waves. Health care personnel are also at risk of developing heat related health problems during hot periods due to the use of personal protective equipment to shield themselves from SARS-CoV-2 and must therefore be protected from excessive heat periods. 

The paper provides a preliminary overview of possible strategies and interventions to tackle these ambiguities. The existing recommendations for protection against heat-related illnesses need revisions to determine whether they include essential aspects of infection control and occupational safety and how they may be supplemented. Additionally, adjusted heat health action plans need to be monitored throughout the summer periods and be evaluated for their effectiveness and lessons learnt.