The Met Office and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued a stark warning that plummeting temperatures in the coming days could lead to an increase in deaths. The most vulnerable, including those aged 65 and over and individuals with health conditions, are at the greatest risk.
An amber cold health alert will be in effect from noon today (Thursday, January 2) until noon on Wednesday, January 8, impacting all regions of England – West Midlands, East Midlands, north east of England, north west of England, Yorkshire and The Humber, the east of England, London, the south East of England and the south west of England.
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Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, warned: “The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions, and it is, therefore, vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable.
He added: “These people could be more at risk of heart attacks, stroke and chest infections as a result of cold temperatures.”
The Met Office and UKHSA had previously issued a yellow alert, but this was upgraded to amber on Thursday, January 2.
Wintry conditions are anticipated to cause ‘severe impacts’ nationwide, with warnings that the ‘cold weather impacts are likely to be felt across the whole health service for an extended period of time’. The country may see a surge in demand for healthcare, potential staffing shortages, and a ‘challenge’ in maintaining indoor temperatures at the advised 18C, reports Birmingham Live.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a statement noting: “Expected low temperatures are likely to result in increased use of health care services by vulnerable people and an increase in risk to health for individuals aged 65 years and over, those with pre-existing health conditions (including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases) and some other vulnerable groups, such as those sleeping rough.”