Heat-related medical issues on rise in the Triangle

Friday, July 29, 2016
The heat takes a toll
Staying safe and dealing with the heat.

Health leaders are seeing an increase in the number of heat related incidents.

They are warning that anyone can be caught off guard by these temperatures.

So far no reports of any heat related deaths. But several people have been taken to the hospital.

Duke Health says it is reporting an increase this month compared to last July.

READ MORE: DUKE ENERGY OFFERS TIPS FOR WISE ENERGY USE DURING HEAT WAVE

Wake Med is dealing with a number of adults and children affected by this heat directly or indirectly.

On Thursday, at least 19 patients were treated.

Doctors say people should limit their outdoor activity between the mid-day to early evening - which is considered the hottest part of the day.

"Don't do overly strenuous work or exercise during the heat of the day, keep yourself hydrated," said Dr. Sue Lynn Ledford, Wake County public health division director. "Check on the elderly and others that are vulnerable. Just remember that heat is a powerful stressor on the human body."

Experts say don't forget to check on the homeless and your pets.

Wake County has shelters for people to visit to escape the heat. They are called white flag shelters.

WATCH: Learn more about white-flag shelters

The white flag is put out when temperatures get over 96 degrees.

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