Latest news with #MontrealPublicHealth
CTV News
5 days ago
- Climate
- CTV News
Montreal records 3 heat-related deaths since Sunday
The city is seen under hazy skies in Montreal, Friday, Aug. 8, 2025. (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press) Public health officials in Montreal say three people have died as a result of the extreme heat that has gripped the city over the past several days. On Wednesday, Danny Raymond, a spokesperson for Montreal public health, confirmed to CTV News there were two more heat-related deaths since Sunday, after a first death was reported on Tuesday. He said there were also two confirmed heat strokes recorded in hospitals. Montreal public health had issued a notice to emergency room doctors on Sunday asking them to report any deaths believed to be caused by the heat. A heat warning issued Saturday by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) remains in effect as of Wednesday, which marked the first day of cooler weather after a stretch of extreme heat. Montreal recorded highs of 31 C on Saturday, 33 C on Sunday, and 34 C on Monday and Tuesday. Humidex values for those days were at or near the 40s. Tuesday also marked the 20th day of plus-30 C weather in Montreal this summer, when the city typically sees nine such days. ECCC says more seasonal weather and lower humidity are expected on Thursday. The forecast is calling for a high of 28 C, with the humidex feeling more like 33. During a heat warning, the weather agency advises people to watch for early signs of heat exhaustion, including headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and fatigue. ECCC also says to drink water often and before feeling thirsty, to close blinds, spend time in an air conditioned space, and plan outdoor activities accordingly. Anyone with health-related questions is encouraged to call Info-Santé at 811. In case of emergency, call 911. With files from The Canadian Press
CBC
6 days ago
- Health
- CBC
After heat-related death, Montreal health officials warn of risks even after weather cools
With at least one death reported since Sunday, Montreal Public Health is urging people to keep an eye out for heat-related symptoms even once heat dissipates. A spokesperson for Montreal Public Health, Tudor Matei, said the agency has been notified of five other heat-related deaths this year, after temperatures soared in late June. The health agency is asking emergency doctors to report any deaths suspected to be linked to heat on days when Environment Canada issues heat warnings for the city. Temperatures exceeded 33 C in Montreal Sunday and Monday, with Tuesday's high expected to reach 34 C. Environment Canada forecasts a high of 29 C on Wednesday, with seasonal temperatures returning Thursday. Emergency rooms throughout the city say they're already seeing patients with heat-related symptoms. But health officials say the busiest days often come after it cools down. Medical professionals warn the health dangers can linger for days after. "Over a few days, people are warm, their bodies are compensating, but towards the end of it, when it persists for several days, we start to see that people get tired, and then their state tends to decline and that's where we get a peak," said Vanessa Grillo, with Urgences-santé. That means, even when the most recent heat wave is officially over, your body may still be at risk. Heat can cause a range of illnesses: heat cramps, exhaustion, stroke, rash and fainting due to overheating and dehydration. Doctors say it's critical to know when to get help. "Every year we try to avoid this kind of death because it's preventable and we really need people to be aware that it's not just casual heat," said Dr. Anne-Sara Briand, with Montreal Public Health. "It's deadly." WATCH | Health officials urge caution in Montreal heat: Why you should watch for heat-related symptoms — even after a heat wave is over 1 hour ago Health experts say staying hydrated, keeping cool and checking in on neighbours can save lives — especially for seniors and those with chronic illnesses. Montreal Public Health has launched a campaign called Visiter une personne aînée isolée — which translates to Visit an isolated senior — in partnership with the city and police, Briand said. The program involves door-to-door visits to check for fraud, mistreatment and heat-related risks. It helps identify the most vulnerable seniors, provide advice and add them to a contact list for support during heat waves, she said. Earlier this summer, Matei, a toxicologist with Montreal Public Health, said in the context of climate change and the region's rising temperatures, "it's more and more of a problem." During the summer heat wave in 2018, 66 people died in Montreal. Around two-thirds of those deaths were seniors with underlying health conditions. A 2024 study from Quebec's Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS) suggests that heat is responsible for 470 deaths per year in the province, and that the number will increase if nothing changes. Along with deaths, there are over 200 hospitalizations and thousands of emergency room visits.
CBC
14-05-2025
- Health
- CBC
Tuberculosis, syphilis cases on the rise in Montreal
Montreal Public Health says newcomers without access to public health care are the ones being most affected by TB. Meanwhile, officials are raising concerns about the spread of syphilis among women.
