Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust has issued health warnings as temperatures are forecast to reach 24-30 degrees across Hampshire and Isle of Wight, with particular concerns for older adults, babies, and young children during the hot spell.
The NHS trust is urging residents to take precautionary measures as the region braces for several days of elevated temperatures that could pose health risks including dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
Steve Mathieu, Medical Director at Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, commented: “With warmer weather predicted over the coming days, we’re encouraging residents to stay safe by taking appropriate measures to remain well and reduce pressure on healthcare services.
“We recommend avoiding direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day, typically between 11am and 3pm. For those planning physical activities such as exercise or dog walking, consider scheduling these during cooler periods like early morning or evening hours.
“Higher temperatures can elevate the risk of cardiac events, strokes, respiratory issues, and other medical complications. Elderly individuals, infants, and young children face greater vulnerability to heat-related illness due to their reduced ability to regulate body temperature. Those with pre-existing medical conditions may also be at increased risk. We urge everyone to follow basic safety measures: maintain proper hydration by consuming plenty of water, apply sunscreen, and reduce alcohol consumption.”
Higher Risk Groups Include:
- Adults aged 65 and over (updated from previous guidance of 75+)
- Infants and children under 5 years
- Individuals with underlying conditions including cardiac problems, respiratory issues, dementia, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease, or mobility limitations
- Those taking specific medications
- People with severe mental health conditions
- Individuals who are currently ill and dehydrated
- Those with alcohol or substance dependencies
- Active individuals who spend extended time outdoors
- Manual labourers and outdoor workers
- Homeless individuals and those in temporary accommodation
- People living alone who may struggle with self-care
Patients should continue taking prescribed medications unless specifically advised otherwise by healthcare professionals. Certain medicines require storage below 25°C or refrigeration according to package instructions.
Healthcare Access Information
With weekend temperatures expected to climb further, increased demand for medical advice and support is anticipated. For non-emergency medical guidance, residents should first contact NHS 111 online. For children under 5, NHS 111 online is unavailable, but Healthier Together offers extensive advice on common health concerns, illnesses, accidents, and injuries. Urgent medical assistance for under-5s should be sought through the 111 telephone service, or by consulting local pharmacists.
Additional guidance is available through the trust’s Know Where To Go advice pages.
Further heat safety information can be found on the NHS website at: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/
