With freezing temperatures forecasted this weekend, Springfield-Greene County Health is reminding the community of the dangers of cold-related illness. According to the National Weather Service, temperatures in Springfield could drop as low as 20° F over the weekend.
Prolonged exposure to cold weather, especially freezing temperatures, can lead to illnesses such as chilblains and frostbite. When cold weather is combined with precipitation, conditions like trench foot are also a risk. Signs, symptoms and treatments for these conditions can be found on the Health Department website.
Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures will eventually exhaust your body’s heat and energy at a rate faster than it can be produced, leading to hypothermia. Early symptoms of hypothermia include:
- Shivering.
- Fatigue.
- Loss of coordination.
- Confusion and disorientation.
Possible signs that the hypothermia is progressing and becoming life-threatening include:
- Shivering stops.
- Blue skin.
- Dilated pupils.
- Slowed pulse and breathing.
- Loss of consciousness.
If you or anyone near you is showing any signs of hypothermia, call 9-1-1 and move into a warm room or shelter if one is available.
Older adults and those taking medications for diabetes, Parkinson’s, memory loss or thyroid issues may be more at risk due to a reduced ability to regulate your body temperature. However, anyone spending significant time outside is at risk for these conditions, especially those who are unsheltered and individuals doing outdoor physical labor when the weather is cold. Those who lacking safe and secure shelter can access Springfield’s Crisis Cold Weather Shelters coordinated by Community Partnership of the Ozarks.
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Media may contact the Health Department PIO Team by call or text at 417-380-2556 or email at [email protected].
Springfield-Greene County Health Department
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health.springfieldmo.gov | facebook.com/SGCHD | twitter.com/SGCHD
417-864-1658
227 E. Chestnut Expressway