Table of Contents
As a prolonged cold snap continues too grip the Gangwon region and beyond,health officials are warning of a heightened risk of cold-related illnesses,notably among the elderly. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) is actively monitoring the situation and urging preventative measures as winter health concerns escalate.
The dangers of exposure to extreme cold stem from the body’s struggle to maintain a stable core temperature.Cold disease, as it’s broadly defined, can manifest as anything from debilitating chills when core temperature dips below 35 degrees Celsius to severe hypothermia (generalized cooling) and localized tissue damage like frostbite and chilblains.
“The body prioritizes maintaining the temperature of vital organs, leading to reduced blood flow to extremities,” explained Dr. Kim Min-soo, a KDCA epidemiologist. “This is why hands, feet, ears, and the nose are most vulnerable to frostbite.”
To bolster its surveillance capabilities, of December of last year, the agency expanded its monitoring network to include 512 emergency medical institutions nationwide, providing daily updates on the prevalence and characteristics of cold-related health issues. This data is being used to refine public health guidance as the current cold wave persists.
staying Safe During Extreme Cold: KDCA Guidelines
ahead of the recent “great cold,” the KDCA released updated guidelines for protecting vulnerable populations.The core message is preparation and layered protection. Before venturing outdoors, individuals should consult real-time cold wave impact forecasts to understand the severity of the conditions.
When facing cold weather, the agency recommends wearing multiple layers of clothing – starting with underwear and thin clothing, followed by gloves, a scarf, a mask, and a thick outer layer. Maintaining dry clothing is also crucial. “if your clothes or socks become wet, especially from snow, change them immediately to prevent rapid body temperature loss,” the guidelines emphasize.
Beyond clothing, maintaining overall health is vital. A well-balanced diet, light indoor exercise, and adequate water intake can bolster the body’s resilience. Indoor environments should be kept at a pleasant 18 to 20 degrees Celsius and adequately humidified to prevent dryness.
Age-Specific Risks and Trends
Analysis of data from 2020 to 2025 reveals distinct patterns in cold-related illness across different age groups. While hypothermia cases were disproportionately high among the elderly,frostbite and chilblains were more frequently reported in younger individuals,likely due to increased outdoor activity.
Over the five-year period, a total of 1,914 cold-related illnesses were recorded. A significant 56% (1,071 cases) affected individuals over the age of 60. Notably, dementia was identified as a comorbidity in 234 cases (12.2%).
This highlights the heightened vulnerability of elderly individuals, particularly those with cognitive decline. “The elderly often have a reduced ability to regulate body temperature and may experience delays in recognizing and responding to cold,” an agency report noted. Younger individuals, while less prone to hypothermia, are more susceptible to localized cold injuries during outdoor pursuits.
Protecting Vulnerable Populations and Avoiding Risky Behaviors
The KDCA stresses the importance of minimizing outdoor exposure for both the elderly and children during cold waves, as they possess a reduced capacity to maintain core body temperature compared to healthy adults. Caution should be exercised in everyday activities,avoiding icy surfaces like roads,slopes,and stairs,and opting for level ground or elevators whenever possible. Wearing gloves is also essential to protect hands.
the agency issued a firm warning against alcohol consumption during cold spells. While alcohol may initially create a sensation of warmth,it ultimately causes blood vessels to dilate,leading to rapid heat loss and an increased risk of hypothermia. “Excessive drinking can impair judgment and increase the likelihood of accidents in cold conditions,” a KDCA spokesperson cautioned. Moderation is key to staying safe throughout the winter months.
