The Ministry of Health launches a plan to protect citizens from heatwaves and scorpion stings.
In light of the rising temperatures during the summer of 2025, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection has mobilized its regional and central departments to prevent serious health repercussions associated with heatwaves. This involves implementing a comprehensive national plan focused on prevention and treatment for the most vulnerable groups. Minister Amin Al-Tahrawi issued a circular to regional directors and university hospital administrations urging them to adopt a series of proactive measures, including providing air conditioning in hospitals and monitoring the supply of anti-scorpion venom, as it poses one of the main seasonal risks in hot areas.
The ministerial circular outlines the activation of the “National Mechanism for Responding to Health Impacts of Heatwaves in 2025.” This will involve launching regional action plans that consider the specific characteristics of each area, aiming to mobilize human and material resources proactively and ensure rapid and effective prevention and care for individuals affected by excessive heat.
Among the measures the ministry has called for are the establishment of a medical shift system available around the clock and throughout the week within health facilities, reinforcing medical and paramedical teams—especially in emergency, resuscitation, and intensive care departments—along with readiness of emergency medical services (SAMU), strengthening emergency call reception and handling systems, and ensuring sufficient health transportation through special shifts for ambulance drivers and technicians.
The ministry emphasized the necessity of providing essential medications and medical supplies, intensifying awareness campaigns within hospitals about optimal care for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those suffering from chronic diseases, as well as workers exposed excessively to sunlight. It was also stressed that air-conditioned rooms should be established within reference hospitals to provide care under appropriate conditions.
The circular concluded by highlighting the importance of regular reporting on cases of heat strokes or complications linked to heatwaves, with this data directed to the Directorate of Epidemiology and Disease Control (DELM) to monitor the epidemiological situation and ensure swift and effective intervention when needed.
