Heat waves, wildfires and floods are changing who gets sick and how medicines perform. If you take prescriptions, care for someone with chronic illness, or run a clinic, knowing a few clear steps can prevent harm when weather goes extreme.
Hotter, longer summers increase heat stroke and dehydration — a bigger problem for older adults and people on diuretics or certain blood pressure drugs. Poor air quality from wildfires or smog worsens asthma and COPD and raises heart attack risk. Warmer winters let mosquitoes and ticks live longer and move into new regions, raising dengue, West Nile and Lyme disease cases. Flooding pushes bacteria and chemicals into drinking water, causing GI and skin infections. Finally, repeated extreme events add stress and anxiety for caregivers and patients managing long-term conditions.
Store meds properly. Insulin, many vaccines, biologics and some eye drops need stable cool temps. Carry a small insulated bag and a thermometer when traveling. If power goes out, move temperature-sensitive meds to a cooler with ice packs and keep the lid closed. Ask your pharmacist which of your meds are heat‑sensitive and if there are more stable alternatives.
Prepare a medical kit. Keep a current list of meds, doses, prescriber contacts, and allergy info both on your phone and on paper. Try to keep at least a two-week supply when you can — many insurers or pharmacies will assist with emergency refills during declared disasters. Include copies of important device instructions (oxygen, pumps, CPAP) and extra batteries or a plan for backup power.
Reduce exposure during poor air quality. Stay indoors, run HEPA air filters, and avoid exercise outside on bad air days. Use N95 masks for smoke, not cloth masks. For asthma, follow your action plan and don’t delay care for worsening symptoms.
Mind infections and prevention. If you live where vector diseases are spreading, talk to your doctor about vaccines and prevention steps like insect repellent and screened windows. After floods, boil water if officials advise it and watch for signs of waterborne illness.
Check social supports and services. Learn where cooling centers, community shelters, and mobile clinics operate in your area. Pharmacies should know which meds need cold chain backup and how to handle deliveries after storms — call ahead if you expect transport delays.
Talk with your healthcare team now. They can adjust doses, suggest less temperature‑sensitive formulations, or set up telehealth options for extreme weather. Small prep — safe storage, a simple kit, and up-to-date plans — makes your medication and your health far more resilient when the next heat wave, fire smoke or flood arrives.
Climate change is significantly influencing the spread of fungal infections worldwide. Warmer temperatures and changing weather patterns promote fungal growth and spread, affecting both human health and ecosystems. Understanding these impacts is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies. Key factors include geographic spread, resistance increase, and ecosystem imbalance.
