Following recent Essex coastal tragedies our thoughts are with those who have died, their families, friends and the responders who did their utmost to save people. 2,877 excess deaths have been caused by May and June heatwaves. Heat health warnings continue.
Heat puts immense physical strain on the body, made worse by dehydration, with the heart pumping harder and faster to cool you. Babies, older people and those with existing health conditions are most at risk. It can cause heart attacks, strokes and other potentially fatal emergencies. Intense heat can affect anyone and is a ‘silent killer’ because early symptoms are easily overlooked.
- Keep cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms facing the sun
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Avoid direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highest
- When outside, cover-up with suitable clothing, eg an appropriate hat and sunglasses, seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
- Do physical activity when it’s cooler in the morning or evening.
- Check weather forecasts to see when it’ll be cooler
- Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them.
Swimming is a great way to enjoy the summer, but 90% of accidental drownings over the last five years occurred at inland or coastal open water sites. Many tragedies are preventable by attention to safety. Even on warm days, water temperatures can remain dangerously cold. Entering cold water suddenly can trigger cold water shock, causing an involuntary gasp, rapid breathing and loss of control in the water. If you get into difficulty ‘Float to Live’ by tilting your head back, floating on your back and controlling your breathing until help arrives or you’re able to swim to safety.
Salmonella and Campylobacter cases rise during the summer BBQ season, often linked to undercooked or mishandled meat, poultry and eggs. Always cook meat all the way through, checking juices run clear and that a thermometer reads at least 75°C. Use separate utensils for raw and cooked food; keep food chilled, out of direct sunlight; take extra care with high-risk dishes like cooked chicken, egg dishes and prepared salads.
When abroad follow simple steps to have a fun and healthy trip:
- Prevent mosquito bites using 50% DEET repellent, sleep under treated nets and wear long-sleeved clothing to protect against malaria, dengue, Zika and other infections.
- Choose piping hot food, follow “boil it, cook it, peel it or leave it,” and wash your hands regularly.
- In malaria-risk areas, take medication exactly as prescribed. Avoid buying antimalarials abroad, as they may be fake, substandard or intended for treatment rather than prevention.
- If you feel unwell abroad, seek medical attention immediately. Don’t wait until you’re back in the UK.
The Measles outbreak continues. It’s spread into East of England. Parents should get children vaccinated and check children’s vaccination status. In 2026 to 20 July 933 English measles cases have been confirmed (959 in whole of 2025), mostly driven by the North London outbreak. This continues increasing. 2 children have died of measles in 2026. Essex is in danger.
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SWF Health & Social Care Group 