The Department of Health of the Government of the Canary Islands has launched its health risk prevention campaign and the new Regional Plan for Heat Surveillance and Prevention. This plan is tailored to the Archipelago's geographical and climatic specificities, as well as its population distribution, estimated at 2.5 million residents and daily visitors, plus over 15 million annual tourists.
The Director General of Public Health, José Díaz-Flores, outlined the action lines, emphasizing the need for a specific and coordinated strategy. The aging population, with over 33% of residents aged 65 and above in some municipalities, is a key vulnerability factor against high temperatures.
The proposal is structured around four essential functions: daily calculation of health risk levels in each MeteoSalud zone, alerting involved organizations and citizens through a categorized notice system, coordinating the response of administrations protecting vulnerable populations, and evaluating the impact of heat on morbidity and mortality.
A notable update in the plan is the expansion to 16 MeteoSalud zones, compared to the 13 in the national plan. This aims for greater territorial precision, particularly in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and Telde, which will operate as independent units.
An intersectoral technical committee has been established, involving various administrations and departments such as Social Affairs, Education, and Emergencies. Epidemiological surveillance will be year-round, unlike the national plan which generally runs from May to September.
The awareness campaign, themed 'In the Canary Islands, summer is pure happiness,' will disseminate prevention messages through videos, audio spots, and digital materials. It highlights the importance of hydration, sun protection, healthy eating, and preventing accidents at beaches and pools.
