Increase in Heat-Related Illness (HRI) Emergency Department (ED) Visits from 5/10/22 – 5/11/22

The National Syndromic Surveillance Program (NSSP) indicates an increase in ED visits for heat-related illnesses (HRI) (total of 30) since 5/10/22 throughout Michigan, primarily in southwest and southeast Michigan. Most HRI visits were male (73%), 18-44 years of age (57%), and a majority occurred in southwestern Michigan counties including Allegan, Berrien, Kalamazoo, Van Buren.

These are the first higher heat days this spring and people’s bodies might not yet have acclimated to warmer temperatures. Additionally, having limited or no access to air conditioning during high-temperature days with low- to mid- humidity can lead to increases in HRI. While national messaging for HRI awareness is usually targeted for children and senior adults, younger adults aged 18-34 have had higher ED rates for HRI in Michigan, as is the case this week.

Temperatures in the mid to high 80s are forecasted through Saturday for much of Michigan’s lower peninsula. Temperatures should lower to the mid-70s by Sunday.

Here are some links to resources and information that will be helpful in responding to HRI:

MDHHS Heat Resources:

For people without air conditioning:

• If someone in the home is at least 55 years old, or if air conditioning is medically necessary, apply for State Emergency Relief (SER) by visiting MI Bridges.
• Text or call Michigan 211 (mi211.org)
• Use a buddy system – check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you
• Spend some time at a shopping mall, public library, or other public buildings – even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help.

Michigan Heat Awareness and Safety Fact Sheet

Michigan Prepares – Extreme Heat

MDHHS Environmental Health Services:

Email – MDHHS-DEHresponse@michigan.gov

EH Hotline – 1-800-648-6942 (Monitored M-F, 8 a.m to 5 p.m, with afterhours service for emergency)