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Are German Workers Facing More Heat-Related Illnesses This Year?
2025-07-01 12:29:10
Climate Change
Europe
Health

Are German Workers Facing More Heat-Related Illnesses This Year?

In recent decades, German hospitals have treated an average of 1,400 people annually for conditions related to extreme heat or sun exposure. Although fatalities directly linked to heat are rare, with an average of 22 deaths per year from 2003 to 2023, the overall mortality rate tends to rise during heatwaves due to preexisting conditions.

In 2023, heat-related hospitalizations were significantly below average, with 828 cases, compared to a peak of 2,600 in 2003. Despite a general decline in such hospitalizations, primarily attributed to increased public awareness and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hospital visits, heat illnesses continue to affect productivity.

In 2023, there were approximately 92,700 heat-related sick days, a 12% increase from the previous high in 2018. Calls for workplace heat protection measures, including adjusted working hours, have risen, as men are more frequently affected than women.

Related news on that topic:

Heatwave Hits Southern Europe: Hospitals Overwhelmed as ... Soar

Southern Europe is currently grappling with an intense heatwave, marked by soaring temperatures that have reached alarming highs, pushing close to 42°C (107.6°F) in various regions including Spain, Italy, and Greece. This extreme weather phenomenon is closely linked to climate change, which has significantly heightened the frequency and severity of such heatwaves. As authorities issue warnings and implement safety measures, the consequences of this heat are becoming increasingly dire. Hospitalizations due to heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke and dehydration, have surged, particularly among vulnerable groups like the elderly and homeless. Experts project that, under current climate policies, heat-related mortality rates could quadruple by mid-century, underscoring the urgent need for effective climate action. The heatwave has not only disrupted daily life but has also ignited wildfires across the region. In France, for instance, significant wildfires have erupted, prompting emergency responses and evacuations in affected areas. The situation is exacerbated by broken temperature records, with Spain recording its hottest June day ever at 46°C in El Granado. As the region endures these extreme conditions, authorities are urging residents to take precautions—staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours, and seeking refuge in cooler environments. This relentless heat serves as a stark reminder of the pressing challenges posed by climate change, highlighting the need for urgent measures to address the underlying causes and mitigate future impacts.

Germany Prepares for Heatwave as Temperatures Approach 40 Degrees ... Celsius

Germany is bracing for a significant heatwave, with temperatures forecasted to soar to nearly 40 degrees Celsius by midweek. The German Weather Service has issued warnings, emphasizing the need for precautions such as seeking cool shelters and staying hydrated. This intense heat is expected to peak on Wednesday, particularly affecting regions such as Hamburg and the areas between Hanover and Braunschweig. Meanwhile, southern Europe is already experiencing scorching temperatures, with Spain and Portugal witnessing highs exceeding 40 degrees. The heat in southern Europe has reached record levels, with the Spanish city of El Granado recording a staggering 46 degrees. The current weather patterns highlight the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves, a phenomenon attributed to climate change. This trend is not isolated to Germany or southern Europe; the United Kingdom is also experiencing unseasonably high temperatures, with the heatwave expected to lead to the hottest start to Wimbledon on record. The rising temperatures have triggered concerns about public health, with increased risks of heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. There is also a heightened risk of wildfires, particularly in regions already experiencing drought conditions. These developments underscore the broader implications of climate change, which is leading to more frequent and severe weather extremes across the globe. The German Weather Service notes a significant rise in the average number of days with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees since the 1980s. As these heatwaves become more common, the need for effective climate adaptation strategies becomes increasingly urgent to mitigate their impacts on health, agriculture, and infrastructure.

The press radar on this topic:

AFP
1. Juli 2025 um 07:14

On average, 1400 treatments per year in hospitals due to heat

The Federal Statistical Office has analyzed data for the years 2003 to 2023 and found that an average of 1400 people per year are treated as inpatients in German hospitals due to heat or solar radiation. The number of deaths as a direct result of heat is relatively rare, with an average of 22 cases per year. The long-term average of heat-related hospital admissions fell to 828 cases in 2023, after previously reaching up to 2600 cases.
DER SPIEGEL
1. Juli 2025 um 09:29

More and more days off due to heat complaints - DER SPIEGEL

The number of days off due to heat-related complaints continues to rise. According to numbers from the Ministry of Social Affairs, there were around 92,700 sick days due to heat-related consequences in 2023, which is 11,300 more than the previous record of 2018. It is twelve percent higher. Men are much more affected than women and Left-wing politician Cem Ince demands a reform of the workplace regulation as well as concrete heat protection measures. The green faction in parliament brings 'Heat..
n-tv.de
1. Juli 2025 um 08:16

Heat-free for employees?: Employees are increasingly absent due to heat - n-tv.de

The number of days on which employees are absent due to heat stroke or exhaustion is increasing. The Left and the Greens are demanding concrete protective measures from employers such as adapted working hours, longer breaks and sun protection. In 2023, the number of sick days due to heat-related effects was around 92,700 - 11,300 days more than in 2018. Men are more affected by heat-related effects in the workplace than women.
n-tv.de
1. Juli 2025 um 08:12

Deadly Temperatures: Heat is Hard Work for the Body - n-tv.de

Heat has catastrophic effects on the human body: The organism can rise above 42 degrees or fall below 32 degrees and be fatal. The cardiovascular system is heavily strained, especially in older people with chronic pre-existing conditions. Heat also increases the risk of stroke and mortality rates increase during tropical nights. Mental health disorders such as anxiety states and aggressiveness occur, leading to conflicts. The OECD concludes that 10 additional days with temperatures above 35 de..
CW

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