Heatstroke can be deadly: What you need to know about its prevention

As a scorching heat wave grips Europe - with temperatures expected to remain extreme this week - countries including France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Spain have issued high-temperature alerts and activated emergency response plans. 

At least 18 deaths have been reported in France as of Monday, according to Reuters, while hundreds of schools were ordered closed.

Meanwhile, parts of China are also seeing prolonged heat. 

Earlier this month, a man in his late 50s collapsed while working outdoors and was rushed to Fujian Provincial Geriatric Hospital. Dr. Huang Hao, chief of emergency medicine, used this case to urge the public: heatstroke can kill, and we must learn to recognize and respond to its most dangerous form - severe heatstroke, or heat pyrexia.

What is heat pyrexia?
Heat pyrexia occurs when the body's thermoregulatory system fails under extreme heat, causing core temperature to rise above 40°C. This triggers a cascade of multi-organ damage, including brain swelling, kidney failure and muscle breakdown. There are two types: exertional - affecting young, active individuals during intense physical work or sports; and classic - striking vulnerable groups such as the elderly, infants and those with chronic illnesses, even at rest. Both are life-threatening emergencies.

Early warning signs: from discomfort to danger
Heat illness progresses in stages. Early symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, nausea and heavy sweating. As it worsens, the skin becomes hot, dry and flushed - sweating stops - and confusion, slurred speech or loss of consciousness may follow. If you or someone nearby shows these signs, act immediately. Don't wait for a fever to spike; by then, organs are already under siege.

First aid: 'Move, Cool, Hydrate, Transport'
Remember the four-word rule: Move, Cool, Hydrate, Transport. First, move the person to a shaded or air-conditioned area. Then, cool them aggressively - immerse in cool water, apply ice packs to the neck, armpits and groin, or fan with mist. Hydrate if they are conscious, using water or sports drinks. But never force fluids into an unconscious person as they may choke. Finally, transport to a hospital immediately. Cooling is the priority; waiting for an ambulance without active cooling can be fatal.

Everyday prevention tips
Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat (10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.). Wear light, breathable clothing and a hat. Drink water regularly, even if not thirsty. Schedule rest breaks in cool spaces. For outdoor workers, rotate shifts and monitor each other for signs of distress. And never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for minutes.

Heatstroke is preventable, but its progression can be swift and silent. As extreme heat becomes more frequent, knowing these lifesaving steps is no longer optional - it is essential. Stay cool, stay aware and act fast.

(Cover: Tourists arrive at a closed Eiffel tower during a heat wave, Paris, France, June 23, 2026. /CFP)