Detecting a hot spot: Using surveillance data for heat-related illnesses and deaths to target education and outreach efforts for at-risk populations

Background: Every year an undetermined number of people suffer heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and in rare cases, death due to exposure to extreme heat. Between 1979 and 2003, 8,015 deaths from heat exposure or conditions exacerbated by extreme heat were reported in the United States. In 2006, 253 people died because of extreme heat. California was hardest hit with 143 deaths triggered by a heat wave; 16 (8.9%) occurred in Imperial County. The incidence of heat-related morbidity and mortality is not routinely monitored.

Methods: In 2006 and 2007, Imperial County Public Health Department conducted active surveillance for heat-related illnesses at hospitals and heat-associated deaths through the County Coroner. The data were used to monitor trends, increase community awareness about health risks associated with exposure to high temperatures, and initiate preventive measures to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Results: In 2006, Imperial County reported 60 cases of heat-related illnesses and 16 deaths. In 2007, 94 heat-related illnesses and 17 deaths were reported, including 62 heat exhaustion cases and 13 heat stroke cases. Heat stroke cases had more than a two-fold increase in 2007. Seven of the deaths were undocumented immigrants from Mexico, three were seniors, and one was homeless. Surveillance data and other relevant information were posted on the Department's Webpage. The Department developed a response plan that outlines protection measures for vulnerable individuals.

Conclusion: Heat-related illness and death data were used to target outreach and education for at-risk populations through senior centers, the homeless taskforce, and other hard-to-reach population venues.