Dr. Julie Loslier, Director of Public Health of Montérégie (Photo: Courtesy)
The torrential rains of September 13 and the recent hurricanes in the south have given us a new example of this: climate change is part of our reality. They manifest themselves with an increase in the frequency and intensity of various climatic events such as floods and episodes of intense heat.
By Dr. Julie Loslier, Director of Public Health of Montérégie
Torrential rains can cause water to seep into homes and lead to the proliferation of mold if wet objects and materials are not removed or dried quickly enough. These molds can irritate the eyes, nose and cause breathing problems, headaches and fatigue.
Events of extreme heat can cause serious health repercussions, especially for the most vulnerable, resulting in hospitalizations and even deaths.
Some diseases that were not previously present in the Northern Hemisphere have gained ground due to climate change. This is the case with Lyme disease transmitted by ticks infected with the bacteria that cause this disease.
Concrete actions
Public health works to help people adapt to climate change. For example, it collaborates with municipalities and health facilities during periods of extreme heat in implementing measures to protect the most vulnerable people. It also supports municipalities in greening projects to reduce heat islands.
It also works with its partners to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which are responsible for global warming. Public health supports municipalities in particular in developing alternatives to solo cars by promoting cycle paths, public transport and carpooling. It can help promote access to locally produced food by reducing the distances traveled from food to plate.
In short, work to better adapt municipalities because climate change is inevitable. He also collaborates in the implementation of projects aimed at reducing future impacts.
