If the global temperature rise is kept well below two degrees, the situation will remain roughly the same, according to the report’s authors. However, due to unchecked climate change, temperatures throughout Germany can increase – with considerable health effects. In the worst case, in which no measures are taken to reduce CO² emissions and temperatures rise by 4.7 to 5.1 degrees by the year 2100, the number of heat-related hospital admissions for people over 65 years of age could increase sixfold.
Przibilla advises staying in the shade on sunny days. It can stop UV radiation by up to 95 percent. In addition, a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor is essential. “You should be particularly careful with babies and small children. A sun hat or a parasol on the pram is good service.”
If there are signs of sunstroke, the person affected should be quickly removed from the direct sun and taken to a cool place. The upper body should be raised and the head should be cooled with wet towels. “The repeated control of consciousness, breathing and signs of life is important,” emphasizes Przibilla. “If in doubt, don’t hesitate and dial 112.”
However, health effects are not only related to a higher average temperature to which humans could possibly get used to in the long term. The more frequent and stronger short-term temperature fluctuations caused by climate change are much more significant, warns the AOK. Rising temperatures also allow infectious diseases that are transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks, such as TBE and Lyme disease, to spread more widely.
An online survey by the AOK Scientific Institute (Wido) also looked at the role of climate change. More than 3,000 people were asked how well they felt about climate change and its effects on health, the insurance company said.
Many do not know about the health consequences: Almost 70 percent of those surveyed state that they are well informed about the visible consequences of climate change such as heat waves or storms. On the other hand, more than 40 percent of those surveyed felt that they were barely or not at all informed about the possible health consequences of high pollution in the air they breathe. In terms of exposure to UV radiation or insect-borne pathogens, it is more than a third.
A quarter feel severely impaired: More than half are very concerned about the increase in heat waves with a view to their own health. A quarter of those surveyed felt that they were severely or very severely affected by persistent heat.
Avoid physical strain: When asked how they adapt their daily routine to the heat, around 80 percent said they drink enough, open the windows at night and darken the apartment during the day. Around 60 percent avoid physical strain or postpone it to the morning and evening hours.
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